Restored cherub fresco in Rome sparks coincidence with PM Meloni, church looks into it
Photo: PM of Italy Giorgia Meloni (Getty Images)
Authorities in Rome have launched an inquiry after the restoration of a fresco in the Basilica of San Lorenzo in Lucina, which resulted in a depiction of a cherub that has drawn comparisons to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Ansa reports that the church is examining the coincidence.
The Roman diocese announced that it had launched an official inquiry to clarify the circumstances of the fresco restoration at the Basilica of San Lorenzo in Lucina and to determine any potential responsibility of those involved. The office emphasized that sacred art is intended solely for liturgical life and prayer and should not be used or exploited otherwise.
Restorer Bruno Ventinetti stated that he had simply restored the original lines of the fresco and had no intention of giving the cherub the features of any specific person. The case, however, sparked mixed reactions in Italian society, with opposition political forces calling for a transparent investigation.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni responded to the attention on social media with a joke, asking, "Do I really look like a cherub?"
Media reports noted that the restoration has fueled discussions against the backdrop of recent Vatican cultural projects, including the presentation of Raphael’s fresco hall last summer.
Earlier, RBC-Ukraine reported on the frescoes of St. Cyril’s Church in Kyiv, which date back to the 12th century and feature unique depictions of the Last Judgment, the Apocalypse, and Paradise, as well as the frescoes of Saint Sophia Cathedral, which researchers have recently begun studying for microbial life.
