Overview
- Volunteer restorer Bruno Valentinetti said he overpainted the face at the Vatican’s request, and the parish priest confirmed the action.
- The Diocese of Rome condemned the politicization of sacred imagery and opened an inquiry with Italy’s heritage authority.
- Italy’s culture ministry directed a search for archival photographs to determine the original appearance and guide professional reinstatement.
- Church officials described the overpainting as a provisional step as they determine next conservation measures.
- Crowds drawn by the controversy disrupted worship, and debate continues over the work’s monarchist context and whether the figures are angels or winged Victories.