Bolton, a historic Italian family-owned company and a leader in the production and distribution of consumer goods, supported the restoration of*Ercole o santo guerriero*(Herculesor theWarrior Saint), a sculpture that is part of the extraordinary heritage of Milan Cathedral. The work, depicting a young man in military garb and armor in the act of unsheathing his sword, still hasan uncertain identity today: it could represent Hercules or one of the many warrior saints that make up the Cathedral’s rich sculptural ensemble.
The initiative is part of the “Adopt a Statue” project, promoted by the Veneranda Fabbrica del Duomo with the aim of supporting the conservation of some of the many sculptures that have been removed from the cathedral over time for conservation purposes. Although no longer in their original locations, these works continue to bear witness to the deep bond between the Duomo and the history of Milan and its surrounding area.
Bolton has reaffirmed the company’s commitment to the protection and promotion of cultural heritage and is strengthening its relationship with the city of Milan. Bolton had previously participated in the “Adopt a Spire” project, dedicated to the care and conservation of the Duomo’s 135 spires. On that occasion, the company supported the Gugliotto Cesa Bianchi spire, dedicated to the figure of Saint Joachim.
The designation “Hercules or the Warrior Saint” reflects the uncertainty surrounding the identity of the figure depicted. The hypothesis that the figure represents the hero of classical mythology is also linked to the Cathedral’s complex symbolic universe. Traditionally, in fact, Hercules could be interpreted as an allegory of the struggle against evil. The reference to the hero is also linked to Milan’s imperial history through Maximian Herculeus, whose name alludes to the mythological figure.
Probably created in the 16th century by an unknown artist, the sculpture stands out for its rich detail and the expressive power of its composition. The armor, boots, and other elements of the attire help define a figure characterized by a strong, monumental presence.
Thanks to Bolton’s support, it was possible to carry out the conservation work necessary to protect the sculpture. The project specifically involved cleaning the surfaces and finely decorated details, with particular attention paid to the figure’s armor and footwear. The restoration has made these details legible once again, allowing visitors to appreciate the quality of the craftsmanship and the details of the sculptural surface.
As a testament to Bolton’s support for the “Adopt a Statue” project, the restored statue will remain on display at the Bolton Group ’s Milan office: where it can be viewed by employees, partners, and visitors, offering an opportunity to learn more about the sculpture’s historical and artistic value and the work carried out by the Veneranda Fabbrica del Duomo to preserve the Cathedral’s heritage.
The initiative is carried out in collaboration with the Superintendence of Archaeology, Fine Arts, and Landscape for the Metropolitan City of Milan.
“Bolton was founded in Milan and maintains a deep connection with this city. Our roots are here, and this is where we continue to build our future. That is why we are particularly proud to have supported the Veneranda Fabbrica del Duomo’s ‘Adopt a Statue’ project, helping to preserve and highlight one of the city’s most extraordinary symbols,” said Marina Nissim, Chairwoman of Bolton. “Restoring this work to its former splendor means preserving an important part of Milan’s history, art, and identity, making it accessible and vibrant once again for residents and visitors alike. We like to think that this statue continues to convey, today as in the past, values of strength, courage, and determination: timeless values that are part of our community’s cultural heritage and that continue to speak to present and future generations.”
“Bolton is participating in the ‘Adopt a Statue’ fundraising project: a concrete initiative that contributes to the care of the Duomo and the preservation of our heritage. This decision holds deep significance in its connection to Hercules and the figure of the founder, Joseph Nissim: an extraordinary man who, having arrived in Milan after the war, demonstrated unique courage and intelligence, overcoming every challenge and building a great international group. Joseph Nissim was an entrepreneur of immense vision, but also a man of refined culture,” stated Fedele Confalonieri, President of the Veneranda Fabbrica del Duomo di Milano. “Today, that extraordinary sensitivity and entrepreneurial spirit live on in the spirit of continuity thanks to Marina Nissim, whom I thank from the bottom of my heart for her support and friendship, which are renewed, once again, in her father’s name and out of love for art and for Milan.”
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| Bolton Adopts a Statue from Milan Cathedral: The Enigmatic Hercules, or “Warrior Saint,” Has Been Restored |
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