A Tsim Sha Tsui accessories shop said a ceramic rabbit sculpture worth HK$38,000 on display was “amputated” by two kids recently, with netizens comparing the case to the “Teletubby episode” that happened in Mong Kok two years ago.
Read more: Apology, refund end Teletubby episode
The shop “Love by the Moon” at K11 MUSEA wrote on social media Wednesday that a rabbit sculpture on display at the shop, an art piece by a local sculptor to promote the shop's new jewerly collection, was found lying on the floor with its legs broken earlier.
The sculpture was placed next to a display cabinet near the entrance, with a sign marking its price and warnings that say “Do not touch” and “Pay full price for any damages.”
According to CCTV footage, a man with two kids walked into the shop that day, with the two kids seen tapping on the sculpture after they saw it. As the kids were tapping on the sculpture, the sculpture lost its balance and the man tried to hold it in place, but in vain. The man eventually left the rabbit lying on the floor and left the scene. Another man, believed to be part of the group, can also be seen filming the man and the two kids.
Following the announcement, netizens were divided on the matter, with some noting the shop not having barriers between patrons and the sculpture, while some said its the parents' duty to ensure their children behave.
In a response after the incident went viral online, the shop said they have displayed warning signs next to the sculpture and the absence of barriers was to allow patrons to better appreciate art, adding they believe most patrons would respect the rules.
The shop also hit back at accusations that the sculpture was broken by the slightest of touch, saying the shop could only conclude that the damages were the result of contact initiated by the group, with the man being the last to touch the sculpture, before leading the kids away from the scene in a rush.
Meanwhile, the shop acknowledged that a balance between aesthetics and safety is indeed crucial when it comes to displaying artwork, adding it will implement more comprehensive measures to prevent similar occurrences.
The sculpture will be patched up by its creator and will return to the shop shortly, to be displayed in a safe corner, the shop added.
