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A controversy arose in Siena over an androgynous depiction of the Virgin Mary for the Palio di Siena event, sparking debate about traditional iconography. Cardinal Lojudice expressed concerns that the representation deviates from cultural and devotional norms. The artwork, created by Romanian artist Teodora Axente, was intended to symbolize the Assumption of Mary but has faced criticism for its ambiguous features. The archdiocese emphasized the need for prior dialogue on such works to prevent misunderstandings. Despite the controversy, the event proceeded with a blessing, although the cardinal refrained from direct contact with the artwork.