Vandal ‘rips’ £20m Picasso artwork at Tate Modern
A VANDAL attacked a Picasso masterpiece worth £20million in front of horrified visitors at the Tate Modern.
Police were called and the museum was briefly shut on Saturday after reports a man had tried to tear the 1944 painting, Bust of a Woman.
The abstract painting of Picasso’s lover – photographer Dora Maar – has been removed from public display and yesterday a gallery spokesman said: ‘A member of the public attempted to damage a painting. The work of art is with our conservation team for expert assessment.’
The Tate would not comment on claims it had been ripped.
Shakeel Ryan Massey, 20, from north-west London, appeared at Camberwell Green Magistrates’ Court on Monday charged with criminal damage.