Spanish 19th century Columbus painting defaced by activists will require a 'second reconstruction'

A 19th century painting of a tribute to Christopher Columbus that was defaced by activists in Madrid on Sunday will require a "second reconstruction", according to Spain's Department of Defence.

José Garnelo's work entitled 'Primer homenaje a Cristóbal Colón' (First tribute to Christopher Columbus) was damaged by two members of the Futuro Vegetal collective who allegedly threw biodegradable red paint at the painting in protest at Spain's national holiday celebrations.

"Although it has suffered minimal damage, a second reconstruction will be necessary," the Defence Ministry announced on social media,coinciding with the Defence Minister Margarita Robles' visit to the Naval Museum to supervise the repair.

Museum officials have already provided a "brief summary" of the measures undertaken to ensure that the canvas suffers "the least possible damage" during the process.

The Naval Museum has also reported that "the painting has been cleaned and is now ready to be assessed for the next phase". According to the institution, in a post on social networks, "it now remains to decide on the type of restoration".