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The Hand of Desires in Nemi: Marco Manzo's sculpture
La Mano dei Desideri (the Hand of Desires) is a bronze sculpture by Marco Manzo, inaugurated in Nemi on February 14, 2020. It depicts two hands: one holding a wild strawberry pierced by an arrow, the other decorated with intricate ornamental tattoos.
The Myth of Venus and Adonis
The strawberry evokes the myth of Venus's tears: according to legend, wild strawberries—the symbol of Nemi—were born from the union of the goddess's tears and the blood of Adonis. The strawberry is heart-shaped, and pierced by an arrow, a reference to Diana, another deity strongly connected to the area. In ancient times, indeed, Lake Nemi was consecrated to Diana Nemorense.
Meaning and Interaction
The sculpture consists of two hands. The first, holding the strawberry, features elements representing the Nemi territory. The second, a tattooed hand, is designed for visitors to rest their faces on while making a wish. It is an interactive work, specifically intended to be touched and experienced.
