Italian 18th-century oil painting damaged by champagne cork But as he popped the cork, the celebratory mood in Palazzo Isimbardi, which houses Milan's provincial government, turned to shock as party-goers surveyed the damage to the huge painting, which is by an unknown artist. In his defence Mr Cassago, 71, a council official, said he was virtually tee-total and was not used to opening bottles of wine. The damage is now being inspected by insurance assessors, with the repair bill expected to come to at least 1,000 euros (£825). Mr Cassago has said that if the council's insurance policy does not cover the damage, he will pay for the repairs himself. "We're awaiting a response from the insurance company but if they don't pay, then I'll have to dip into my own pocket," he told La Stampa newspaper. He said it would be one of his last acts because he will soon retire. He would be careful not to make the same mistake at his leaving party. This time I'll get someone else to open the bottle.