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Police Probe Damage to Iconic Bernini Elephant Sculpture

2/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Italian police are investigating damage to the elephant sculpture by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in Rome.
An 11-centimeter marble fragment was found nearby.
Authorities confirmed that the fragment is not original to Bernini's work and was added during restoration in 1977.
The incident raises concerns about the preservation of the beloved monument.

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Story summary

The Italian police are investigating damage to the elephant sculpture by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in Rome.
An 11-centimeter marble fragment was found nearby.
Authorities confirmed that the fragment is not original to Bernini's work and was added during restoration in 1977.
The incident raises concerns about the preservation of the beloved monument.