ETERNAL FLAME

The Colosseum, Pantheon, Sistine Chapel— these are just a few of the places that have shaped and bore witness to Rome’s storied past. It’s inevitable to escape the relics of the city’s former glory, and often it is because of its incomparable history that is unfairly relegated to the past. This thinking is something Fendi, a brand born and bred in Rome, wants to change with its latest initiative. Following the the restoration of the Trevi fountain—marked by an unforgettable runway show in 2016—the fashion house reaffirms its commitment to the cultural preservation and development of Rome with its latest gift. It recently unveiled Foglie di Pietra (Leaves of Stone, 2016), a stunning sculpture by acclaimed Italian artist Giuseppe Penone, which is the first permanent contemporary art piece to grace the city’s streets. Standing tall and proud on Largo Goldoni opposite Palazzo Fendi, the commissioned work is a complex creation made of two bronze trees, 18m and 9m tall respectively, with interlacing branches. Laid on a sculpted marble block weighing 11 tonnes and set 5m off the ground, it has a solid presence that captivates with its organic form and ethereal appeal. This monumental love letter from a brand to its home provides inspiration to locals and visitors alike—and is a magnificent modern addition to the Eternal City.