Why Was the Italian PM's Face Scrubbed Out of a Church Fresco?

In a bizarre twist of events, a church fresco in Rome depicting a cherub has been at the centre of controversy due to its resemblance to Italy's Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni. Following public outrage, the artist Bruno Valentinetti has now crudely scrubbed out the angel's face, leading to an investigation by church and government officials. This incident highlights the intersection of art, politics, and public sentiment in contemporary Italy.

Last updated: 29 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The fresco at the Basilica of St Lawrence in Lucina has drawn significant attention after its restoration revealed facial features reminiscent of Giorgia Meloni. Initially, Bruno Valentinetti denied any resemblance but later acknowledged it, claiming it was similar to the original layout. The Vatican has since intervened, ordering the face to be covered up, and the Diocese of Rome has announced plans to restore the original features.

Key takeaways

The fresco's restoration sparked public outrage due to its likeness to Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
Artist Bruno Valentinetti initially denied the resemblance but later admitted it.
The Vatican ordered the face to be scrubbed out, and the Diocese of Rome will restore it to its original state.

Timeline: how we got here

Key events surrounding this controversy include:

2000: The original fresco was painted by Bruno Valentinetti.
October 2023: The restored fresco reveals a resemblance to Giorgia Meloni, sparking public outrage.
25 October 2023: Valentinetti admits to the resemblance after initially denying it.
27 October 2023: The Vatican orders the face to be covered up.
29 October 2023: The Diocese of Rome announces plans to restore the original features.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

In the latest developments, the Diocese of Rome confirmed it would restore the original features of the cherub after receiving a strongly worded statement from Cardinal Baldassare Reina, expressing disappointment over the misuse of sacred art.

What was already established

It was established that the fresco was painted in 2000 and was not protected as a heritage work. The church has a long history of featuring significant artworks, including pieces by Baroque masters.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

While this controversy is primarily centred in Italy, it underscores the broader cultural discussions around the representation of political figures in public art, which could resonate with UK audiences, especially considering the UK's own historical and contemporary issues regarding art and politics.

Businesses and jobs

The incident could lead to increased tourism at the Basilica of St Lawrence as visitors flock to see the infamous fresco, which may benefit local businesses in the area.

Policy and regulation

This situation may prompt discussions in the UK about the regulation of public art and the involvement of religious institutions in artistic expression, particularly in historical contexts.

Numbers that matter

83: Age of artist Bruno Valentinetti, who revealed the resemblance.
5: Minutes' walk from Meloni's office to the Basilica, highlighting its central location.
2000: Year the original fresco was painted; it was not historically protected.

Definitions and jargon buster

Fresco: A technique of mural painting on freshly laid wet plaster.
Baroque: An artistic style prevalent in the 17th and 18th centuries, known for its dramatic use of light and colour.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the coming weeks, expect the Diocese of Rome to begin the restoration of the original cherub features, which may include public announcements detailing the process.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Longer term, the incident will likely prompt discussions about the relationship between art and politics, potentially influencing future art projects and restorations in Italy and beyond.

Signals to watch

Public reactions to the restored fresco once the original features are reinstated.
Media coverage regarding the implications of this incident for public art in Italy.

Practical guidance

Do

Engage with local art and cultural discussions, particularly regarding the representation of political figures.
Visit local galleries and churches to appreciate the historical context of public art.

Don’t

Dismiss the significance of public art; it often reflects societal values and sentiments.
Assume that all restorations will maintain the original intentions of the artist.

Checklist

Research the history of significant artworks in your area.
Attend local discussions or lectures on public art and its implications.
Follow news related to ongoing art restorations and controversies.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

This incident highlights the potential for public outrage when art intersects with political figures, but it also raises questions about artistic intent and the preservation of cultural heritage. There may be disputes regarding the appropriateness of the restoration process and the degree of involvement from the Vatican and local authorities.

Bottom line

The fresco controversy at the Basilica of St Lawrence in Lucina serves as a reminder of the complex relationship between art, politics, and public perception in Italy. As the Diocese prepares to restore the original cherub features, the situation invites broader reflections on the role of political imagery in sacred spaces.

FAQs

What sparked the controversy over the fresco?

The controversy arose when the restored face of a cherub in a fresco at the Basilica of St Lawrence resembled Italy's Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, causing public outrage.

What action has been taken regarding the fresco?

The Vatican ordered the artist to scrub out the cherub's face, and the Diocese of Rome plans to restore the original features.

How is the public reacting to this incident?

Many visitors have flocked to see the fresco, often taking selfies rather than engaging in prayer, indicating a mix of curiosity and controversy surrounding the artwork.