What Happened to the Genitals of the Vitruvian Man? The Mystery Surrounding Da Vinci’s Famous Drawing Has a New Development
An Italian television network faces criticism for airing a modified version of Leonardo da Vinci's Vitruvian Man during its Winter Olympics broadcasts, sparking controversy dubbed 'Penisgate 2' in parliament.
The ongoing debate surrounding the depiction of Leonardo da Vinci's Vitruvian Man has taken a new turn as an Italian state broadcaster aired a modified version of the iconic drawing during its Winter Olympics coverage. Criticism arose after viewers noticed that the illustration of the naked man had been altered to omit a significant anatomical detail, which led to the controversy being nicknamed 'Penisgate 2'. This incident has not only sparked public outcry but has also reached political circles, indicating the profound cultural and historical significance of da Vinci's work.
In the opening visual of the Olympic broadcasts, the classic drawing, which is over 500 years old, was transformed into silhouettes of figure skaters and skiers after initially showcasing the famous figure of the Vitruvian Man. Viewers expressed their shock and confusion over the alterations, especially since the original drawing, which combines art and science, has captivated historians for centuries with its representation of ideal human proportions.
The discussion intensified when the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera highlighted the changes by juxtaposing the original 15th-century illustration with the modified televised version. This controversy raises important questions about artistic expression, cultural heritage, and censorship in modern media, reflecting how historical artworks can still evoke strong reactions in contemporary society.