Romanian official order probe into anti-Semitic display at art expo

A Romanian official said Tuesday that he has ordered an investigation into a local institute accused of displaying an anti-Semitic work of art at a New York expo.

At issue is a miniature pink pony with a black swastika on its flank. The state-funded Romanian Cultural Institute included it an exhibition called Freedom for Lazy people, which features the work of three Romanian street artists.

The miniature is drawing accusations of anti-Semitism. But the institute defends it, citing freedom of expression.

Nicolae Vacariou, who heads the Romanian Senate, said Tuesday he has ordered a probe into the institute, which has branches in 15 countries.

The exhibition, at the institute's New York branch, runs until August 15.