Caravaggio's Bacchus to be displayed at Vinitaly sparks controversy

Caravaggio's Bacchus (1596-1598) and a Bacchus attributed to Guido Reni, both from the Uffizi in Florence, will be loaned to the 55th edition of Vinitaly, the international wine and spirits fair in Verona (April 2-5). The loan, arranged by Agriculture Minister Francesco Lollobrigida and Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano, aims to highlight wine's cultural roots. The works will be shown to groups of 25 visitors at Veronafiere at no cost, thanks to collaboration with the Uffizi and Generali insurance. Lollobrigida stated the initiative demonstrates wine is not a health risk but an expression of centuries-old culture. However, the association Mi Riconosci, which advocates for cultural heritage professionals, strongly criticized the move. They argue the loan violates the Ministry of Culture's own guidelines for lending artworks, which require scientific or educational purposes. They note that Caravaggio's Bacchus is on the Uffizi's list of immovable works submitted to the Ministry on September 22, 2022. The association also points to the recent ticket price increase at the Uffizi to €25 plus presale fee, questioning why visitors should pay more to see fewer works. Mi Riconosci calls on Minister Sangiuliano to respect the Cultural Heritage Code and prioritize public service over private commercial events.