Angel Painting Resembling Italian PM Meloni Covered After Uproar in Rome

Angel Painting Controversy in Rome

• 🎨 A painting in Rome's Basilica of San Lorenzo, featuring an angel with a striking resemblance to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, has had its face hastily erased.
• 📣 The figure, originally completed in 2020 and recently restored by amateur artist Bruno Valentinetti, caused an uproar after gaining widespread media attention.

Church Authorities' Response

• 🏛️ Church authorities ordered the removal of the face, deeming the situation a "storm in a teacup" that had sparked scandal.
• ⚖️ The Diocese of Rome and the culture ministry initiated an investigation into the matter.

Artist's Admission and Meloni's Reaction

• 🤔 Initially denying intentional representation, Bruno Valentinetti eventually conceded to Italian media that the face was indeed that of the Prime Minister, but "along the lines of the previous painting."
• 😂 Giorgia Meloni humorously reacted on social media, posting a photo of the painting with the caption, "No, I definitely don't look like an angel."
• 🚫 Church representatives found the situation unacceptable, stating that sacred art and Christian traditions cannot be misused or exploited.