A solid gold toilet has been stolen from a palace in England.

The 18-karat gold toilet was installed in the former home of ex-British prime minister Winston Churchill, Blenheim Palace.

It is an art piece called 'America' by Italian conceptual artist, Maurizio Cattelan.

Police in Oxfordshire have confirmed the toilet has been stolen and are investigating.

If anyone knows or saw anything suspicious in connection with the event that may help us secure its return please contact Thames Valley Police.

— Blenheim Palace (@BlenheimPalace) September 14, 2019

The toilet remains missing but a 66-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the theft.

Detective Inspector 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.

"Due to the toilet being plumbed in to the building, this has caused significant damage and flooding."

Image: Blenheim Palace

Thames Valley Police believe "at least two vehicles" were used.

She said: "The artwork has not been recovered at this time but we are conducting a thorough investigation to find it and bring those responsible to justice."

An increased police presence is to be rolled out in the area, and investigators are appealing for information from witnesses.

File photo of Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire, England | Image: Ben Birchall/PA Wire/PA Images

Police received reports of the burglary at 4.57am, seven minutes after the thief or thieves made their getaway.

No injuries have been reported and Blenheim Palace has said it is co-operating with a police investigation.

The artwork was installed in Blenheim Palace as part of Mr Cattelan's first solo exhibition in 20 years.

The art was fully installed and available for visitors to engage with - provided they stick to a three minute window.

The golden toilet has previously been on display at New York's Guggenheim Museum in 2016.