Gunmaker Arms Michelangelo’s David Statue with Rifle, Angers Italy
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ArmaLite Inc.(NEW YORK) — A U.S. gun manufacturer that created an image of Michelangelo’s famous “David” statue holding a rifle has riled Italian culture aficionados.
The ad, by the Geneseo, Ill.-based company ArmaLite Inc., depicts the famous statue holding an AR-50A1 rifle that costs $3,700 with the slogan “a work of art” above it.
Italy’s culture minister Dario Franceschini Tweeted a message, saying the advertisement “offends and violates the law.” He also threatened to take action against ArmaLite unless it immediately withdraws the ad campaign, citing copyright law.
The company has not responded to ABC News’ request for comment.
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