Nude Venus poster banned from stations

LONDON, Feb. 13 (UPI) -- The London Underground has decided not to allow a Royal Academy of Arts poster to be displayed at stations because it depicts a naked Venus.

Transportation officials said the portrait, created by 16th-century artist Lucas Cranach the Elder, was barred from the train stations due to fears that it may violate advertising guidelines on sex and nudity, The Daily Mail reported Wednesday.

The Royal Academy of Arts said it is searching for a "less naked" alternative image to use as a promotion for an upcoming exhibit on Lucas Cranach the Elder.

"We don't have a version B where she's got her clothes on. We're just hoping they change their minds and accept her," a spokesman said.

A London Underground spokesman said the service was trying to avoid offending passengers who would see the poster.

"We have to take account of the full range of travelers and endeavor not to cause offense in the advertising on display," the spokesman said.