Event at Palácio do Planalto marks two years since acts of vandalism at the Headquarters of Três Poderes; The highlight is a clock brought to Brazil by Dom João VI that was broken during the attack
In an event organized by the federal government and held at Palácio do Planalto, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (PT) received this Wednesday (8) the works that were restored after the attacks that occurred on January 8, 2023 at the headquarters of the Three Powers. The ceremonies to reintegrate the pieces mark the second anniversary of the vandalism episode in Brasília. Among the works presented, a clock that was brought to Brazil by Dom João VI in 1808, as well as an amphora, stands out.
The watch, which underwent restoration in Switzerland, at no cost to the Brazilian government, is a rare piece, with only one other known example on display in Versailles, France. It will be installed in the Planalto Hearing Room. The first lady, Rosângela da Silva, known as Janja, commented on the attack on the Palácio do Planalto, stating that the place “was a victim of hatred that incites anti-democratic acts”. She also mentioned actress Fernanda Torres, who was awarded a Golden Globe for her performance in the film “I’m Still Here”, emphasizing the relevance of defending democracy by artists.
A second event presented the work “As Mulatas”, by Di Cavalcanti, which also suffered damage and was restored. Palácio do Planalto reported that a total of 21 pieces were recovered by experts in a laboratory that was established at Palácio da Alvorada. The program also includes a ceremony in the Palace’s main hall, where authorities and the press will be present.
Lula, Janja, Geraldo Alckmin and Lu Alckmin pose in front of the painting “As Mulatas”, by Di Cavalcanti, restored after the January 8th attacks (Ricardo Stuckert/PR)
During the event, President Lula and the First Lady will give speeches, reinforcing the importance of recovering works and democracy. In addition to the ceremonies at Palácio do Planalto, Lula will participate in an event that will bring together left-wing parties and social movements in Praça dos Três Poderes. The government’s intention is, with this gesture, to symbolize unity and resistance in relation to the place that was the target of attacks.
*Report produced with the help of AI
