Police in Dublin have arrested a 40-year-old man in connection with the damage of Monet’s 1874 painting “Argenteuil Basin with a Single Sailboat.”

The vandalism took place at the National Gallery of Ireland, on Merrion Square. According to RTE reports the incident took place between 11.30am and 12.00pm, at the lower base wing of the Gallery.

Sean Rainbird, the director of the Gallery said “It is a shocking and very regrettable incident."

"I would like to praise the Garda Síochana (police) and the National Gallery Ireland staff in dealing promptly with the matter."

The painting has been taken from its display and the damage is being evaluated by the conservation team.

The vandal is being held at Pearse Garda station, in Dublin’s city center.