A recent incident at Florence's Uffizi Gallery involved a tourist who reportedly tripped while trying to capture a selfie in front of a famed portrait, leading to damage of the painting. The ornate oil painting, depicting Ferdinando de' Medici, Grand Prince of Tuscany, by artist Anton Domenico Gabbiani, was on display as part of an exhibition titled "Florence and Europe: Arts of the Eighteenth Century." Museum officials confirmed that while the damage appears to be repairable, they are reviewing visitor behavior policies in light of the incident.
Selfie Mishap Causes Damage to Historic Painting at Uffizi Gallery
Selfie Mishap Causes Damage to Historic Painting at Uffizi Gallery
A visitor's attempt to take a selfie has resulted in damage to a valuable 18th-century artwork.
The gallery's director, Simone Verde, highlighted a growing concern about visitors prioritizing social media content over the preservation of art. He stated the need for “very precise limits” on visitor actions to ensure respect for the institution and its cultural heritage. The offender has been located by law enforcement and is under judicial investigation. Following the accident, which resulted in the closure of the exhibition featuring around 150 artworks, the damaged painting will be restored and is slated to return once repairs are completed. This exhibition is expected to resume on 2 July and continue until 28 November.
Earlier similar incidents, like one at Palazzo Maffei where a man fell onto an artwork while attempting to take a photograph, underline the risks of careless behavior in museums. Gallery officials urge visitors to be mindful of both the art and the experience of others.
Earlier similar incidents, like one at Palazzo Maffei where a man fell onto an artwork while attempting to take a photograph, underline the risks of careless behavior in museums. Gallery officials urge visitors to be mindful of both the art and the experience of others.
