The 18th-century oil painting of Ferdinando de' Medici was being showcased in Florence's Uffizi Gallery when the mishap occurred. The museum shared that the incident happened as a visitor lost balance while attempting to "make a meme" in front of the artwork. Fortunately, the damage is not severe and can be swiftly repaired.
Museum director Simone Verde noted the pressing issue of visitors coming to museums solely for social media content. "We will set very precise limits," he announced, stressing the need to maintain respect for cultural heritage. The damaged painting will be restored before it returns to the exhibition, which has been paused and is now scheduled to run until November 28.
The gallery also revealed that the individual responsible has been identified and reported to authorities. Similar incidents have taken place recently, highlighting a growing trend where visitors prioritize photo ops over art appreciation.
Museum director Simone Verde noted the pressing issue of visitors coming to museums solely for social media content. "We will set very precise limits," he announced, stressing the need to maintain respect for cultural heritage. The damaged painting will be restored before it returns to the exhibition, which has been paused and is now scheduled to run until November 28.
The gallery also revealed that the individual responsible has been identified and reported to authorities. Similar incidents have taken place recently, highlighting a growing trend where visitors prioritize photo ops over art appreciation.
