Lack of mutual cultural understanding

The New York Times reported that a pair of statues, a gift from China, has received the cold shoulder in Italy.

A cultural exchange program between Ningbo and Florence has unexpectedly hit an aesthetic roadblock. Florence gave Ningbo a replica of Michelangelo's David, which Ningbo gladly accepted and erected in a public venue. In return, Ningbo, a city south of Shanghai, donated two reproductions of Tang dynasty figures.

Florence residents called them "ugly and too imposing". As a result, the 13-ft tall statues have been put in a warehouse. Local officials are now worried guests from Ningbo are coming for a visit.