Mocs News Reporting the news that matters most to UTC
By: Lindsey Clute
Thieves stole the gold toilet that was on display as part of an art exhibit in the historical Churchill home.
Reports were received at 4:57 a.m. on Saturday, just minutes after the thieves are believed to have escaped.
The functioning 18-carot-gold toilet was valued at around $6 million and was designed by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan. The toilet is considered a piece of artwork and is titled simply, “America.” Visitors were previously able to purchase a 3-minute appointment to use the toilet.
Detective Inspector Jess Milne commented on the condition the incident left the building in:
“Due to the toilet being plumbed into the building, this has caused significant damage and flooding,” he said. “We believe a group offenders used at least two vehicles during the offense.”
It had just been installed at Blenheim Palace two days prior to the theft. It was displayed at the Guggenheim Museum in New York before being brought back to its original setting.
A Blenheim Palace official said that while it was a setback, it doesn’t make the Palace any less special:
“It’s therefore a great shame an item so precious has been taken, but we still have so many fascinating treasures in the Palace and the remaining items of the exhibition to share.”
The Palace was closed temporarily, but resumed normal business the following day.
Officials are still looking to retrieve the toilet and bring those responsible to justice. Any witnesses or anyone who might have information on the stolen artwork or those involved in the theft are urged to contact the police.
