A 1962 sculpture by the renowned twentieth century artist, Henry Moore, is believed to be lying in a neglected condition, outside the House of Parliament. The sculpture was dedicated to the nation by the artist himself, back in 1967. No government agency has taken responsibility for its maintenance.

"Knife Edge Two Piece 1962 - 1965", is one of Moore's earliest two piece sculptures and is valued at an estimated £5 million. Some of the artist's other semi- abstract monumental bronze sculptures are located around the world as public works of art.

The bronze sculpture was accepted in 1967 by the Ministry of Public Works. The Ministry was later integrated into the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) but no arrangements were made to care for the sculpture.

The question of ownership of the artwork has been denied by both DEFRA and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), as well as the English Heritage and Government Art Collection, reports the Telegraph.

The Henry Moore Foundation believes that the sculpture was owned by the City of Westminster but the Westminster Council confirmed it did not own the work, as did the Greater London Authority.

Art historian John-Paul Stonard described the corroded and discolored sculpture as "the most damaged Moore that I have seen on display in Britain".

The sculpture is in need of major restoration costing £17,000, according to the Moore Foundation.

London