Church Painting of Angel Resembling Georgia Meloni Sparks Outrage in Italy
It is not often that political leaders are portrayed as celestial beings, which is perhaps why a significant controversy has erupted in Italy over a church fresco that bears an uncanny resemblance to Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The artwork, located in the historic Basilica of San Lorenzo in Lucina in Rome, has become the centre of a heated debate following recent restoration work.
Striking Resemblance Sparks Immediate Reaction
The fresco, which depicts Umberto II, Italy's final king who reigned for just 34 days, originally featured two cherub-like angels watching over him. However, after repairs were completed, observers noted that one of the angels now bears a remarkable likeness to the country's current prime minister. The newspaper La Repubblica, which first reported on the altered angel, commented: 'Before the restoration, there was a generic cherub. Today, it is the face of the most powerful woman in the country.'
Restorer Denies Intentional Depiction
The volunteer restorer responsible for the work, Bruno Valentinetti, has firmly denied any intention to depict Meloni. He explained that his task was simply to restore the fresco to its original state from 25 years ago. Valentinetti stated: 'They asked me to fix it and I did. I worked on it for two years and finished the work a year ago.' He emphasised that he merely traced the outline of the original design and reapplied colour, insisting 'it's not Meloni.'
Church and Authorities Respond to the Controversy
Monsignor Daniele Micheletti, the church's rector, confirmed that he had requested the chapel be restored exactly as it was. He remarked on Saturday: 'I went to see the restoration this morning. There is indeed a certain resemblance, but we should ask the restorer why he did it that way; I don't know.' Father Micheletti noted that the restoration was necessary due to water damage and that the artwork dated back to 2000, meaning it was not under formal heritage protection.
Despite these explanations, Italian authorities have launched an investigation into the matter. The Soprintendenza Archeologia, Belle Arti e Paesaggio, Italy's cultural heritage protection body, announced they will inspect the restoration. They added: 'We will compare it with archive materials to determine not so much who the restoration resembles, but whether any changes have been made, because the restorer would have had to follow the original lines.'
Political Figures Weigh In on the Debate
Members of the political opposition have been vocal in their criticism. Opposition lawmaker Irene Manzi described the touch-up as 'unacceptable,' while the Five Star Movement party issued a statement saying: 'We cannot allow art and culture to risk becoming a tool for propaganda or anything else, regardless of whether the face depicted is that of the prime minister.'
In contrast, Prime Minister Meloni herself has taken a lighter approach to the controversy. She posted a picture of the fresco on her Instagram account with the humorous comment: 'No, I'm definitely not like an angel.'
Broader Implications for Art and Politics
This incident raises important questions about the intersection of art, restoration, and political symbolism. The debate underscores how cultural artefacts can become embroiled in contemporary political narratives, even when restoration efforts are purportedly aimed at preservation rather than alteration. As investigations proceed, the outcome may influence future protocols for restoring artworks in Italy, particularly those that might inadvertently or intentionally reflect modern figures.
