Lesbian couple scolded for holding hands in San Francisco

The unnamed pair were reprimanded by a security guard at the Contemporary Jewish Museum while viewing an exhibition celebrating the acheivements of lesbian writer and art collector Gertrude Stein.

Apparently the security guard - who has not been identified as male or female - asked the women to refrain from making public displays of affection because it may offend other visitors.

A museum spokesperson confirmed to US news channel NBC that the incident did take

Museum director Connie Wolf said: "Please let me be crystal clear that the CJM has a zero tolerance policy concerning any type of prejudiced or racist word or action, whether directed at CJM visitors or staff."

The pair later received a formal apology.