Diners at a branch of upmarket seafood restaurant Sexy Fish were left stunned yesterday when a large sculpture fell from the wall and crashed onto a table.
The artwork, thought to be a Damien Hirst piece depicting swordfish bursting out of spuming seawater, collapsed during lunch service at the chain’s eatery in central Manchester.
Footage of the aftermath showed the main body of the sculpture lying on the table with broken-off chunks and fragments strewn all around it.
The restaurant was immediately closed and safety inspections were orderd.
There is no indication anybody was injured, though managers did not immediately clarify whether customers were sat at the table in question.
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Sexy Fish is known for its extravagant interiors, and the Manchester branch features a number of artworks by Hirst as well as glass columns and a bar made from illuminated pink onyx and glass.
In a statement, Sexy Fish said: ‘Yesterday, a piece of art fell off the wall at Sexy Fish Manchester.
‘Our team responded immediately, and is in close contact with guests who were dining at the time.
‘As this took place at the start of lunch service, the restaurant was quiet.
‘We have carried out a full safety inspection with independent specialists, and the restaurant will reopen today for lunch.
‘The safety and wellbeing of our customers and team remains our highest priority.’
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