The 18-carat lavatory, created by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan, was taken by a gang during an overnight break-in at around 4.50am this morning, Thames Valley Police said.
The artwork, titled ‘America’, has not yet been found but a 66-year-old man has been arrested.
Det Insp Jess Milne said: “The piece of art that has been stolen is a high-value toilet made out of gold that was on display at the palace.
The artwork, titled ‘America’, has not yet been found but a 66-year-old man has been arrested.
In an official statement confirming the ‘America’ theft, Blenheim said: “We are saddened by this extraordinary event, but also relieved no-one was hurt.
“We knew there was huge interest in the Maurizio Cattelan contemporary art exhibition, with many set to come and enjoy the installations.
“It’s therefore a great shame an item so precious has been taken, but we still have so many fascinating treasures in the Palace and the remaining items of the exhibition to share.
“The investigation continues, but it will be business as usual from tomorrow, so visitors can continue to come and experience all we have to offer.
The toilet had been installed opposite the room where Winston Churchill was born, and was free for use by visitors to the 18th Century heritage site.