Controversial sculpture of Mary giving birth to Jesus vandalized in Austrian cathedral

In Vatican City, a sculpture depicting the Virgin Mary giving birth to Jesus was vandalized in the cathedral of Linz, Austria. The artwork, part of an installation project on women's roles and gender equality, drew criticism from some Catholics who deemed it blasphemous. The beheading of the sculpture, reported to the police by the Linz diocese, was described as an abominable act requiring urgent action to disfigure it. The diocese expressed regret if religious sentiments were hurt but strongly condemned the violent destruction and the attack on artistic freedom. The artist behind the controversial sculpture, Esther Strauss, denounced the vandalism, emphasizing the importance of reclaiming Mary's portrayal from patriarchal influences. The incident sparked debate on the boundaries of art and religious sensitivities. The diocese highlighted the significance of the nativity scene in the cathedral, also known as the Mariendom, in the context of the sculpture's removal. The identity of the vandals remains unknown, prompting calls for dialogue and respect for differing perspectives. In a related context, the report referenced an earlier incident involving Alexander Tschugguel, who gained notoriety in 2019 for removing indigenous statues from a Vatican-area church and throwing them into the Tiber River. The statues, brought by Amazonian delegates for a synod led by Pope Francis, sparked controversy over the display of "pagan" idols in the Vatican. Tschugguel's actions were praised by traditionalists but criticized by others, highlighting ongoing tensions within the Catholic Church regarding cultural representations and religious symbols. The incident underscores the complex interplay between art, religion, and societal values in contemporary contexts.