'Dirty Corner': Anish Kapoor 'vagina' sculpture in Versailles attacked by anti-Semitic vandals

Culture Minister Fleur Pellerin called the new vandalism 'ignominious' and said the authorities would pursue the perpetrators

Anti-Semitic phrases have been spray-painted onto a provocative sculpture by British-Indian artist Anish Kapoor in the gardens of the Palace of Versailles.

It is the second time the artwork, a 230-ft metallic cavern called “Dirty Corner,” has been vandalised. It was spray-painted in June, and targeted again today. France has seen rising concerns about anti-Semitism in recent years.

Culture Minister Fleur Pellerin called the new vandalism "ignominious" and said it shows a "fascist vision of culture". She authorities would pursue the perpetrators.

The sculpture prompted controversy when it was installed, for its style, its incongruity with the traditional glamour of Versailles and because Kapoor told a French newspaper it suggests "the vagina of the queen (Marie Antoinette)".

It is on display until November.

PA