In today's digital world, everyone is desperate to make unusual photos to impress their Instagram and Facebook followers. But for one poor tourist, his enthusiasm met with disaster when he stumbled and knocked down a statue while trying to get a better angle, despite warnings from the museum staff. At least he managed to get a unique photo of a broken statue, if nothing else.
The sculpture, nearly two meters high, was made of wood by an unknown artist in the second half of the 18th century in Lisbon. The museum administration told Sputnik Brazil that the statue was mounted on a pedestal, and fenced off.
"I am confident that we will be able to repair the damage in the nearest future and return to society the renewed Holy Archangel Michael in all his splendor," said António Filipe Pimentel, the director of the museum.
Fortunately for the Brazilian tourist, he will not have to foot the repair bill as the incident was seen as an accident. The item wasn't completely destroyed: the most damaged parts are the archangel's wings and his headwear plume. According to the administration, the statue is already undergoing restoration by a team of specialists.
The incident occurred around noon on Sunday, November 6when the museum offered free entry, just like every first Sunday of the month. After the incident the room on the third floor was closed to visitors.
