Del Vecchio’s new Qn is being celebrated at the Gnam. More than a party, it’s a pilgrimage with a touch of bubbly

Gnam, Rome. The event resembled a pilgrimage more than a party, although champagne was scarce. At the National Gallery of Modern Art, Leonardo Maria Del Vecchio’s new Qn is being celebrated. Outside, amid dozens of photographers, camera flashes and a crowd reminiscent of the Film Festival, the atmosphere resembles the premiere of a blockbuster. Inside, guests are drinking, greeting one another, recognising familiar faces, taking stock of who is present, and expressing excitement when they discover that, just as if in Milan, the catering is organised by Vittorio (gnam!). Among the attendees are La Russa, Piantedosi, Gualtieri, Schlein, Renzi, Bocchino, Tajani, Gasparri, Boschi, Freni, Manlio Messina, Bernabò Bocca, Malagò, the Angelucci family, newspaper editors, MPs from the right, the left, the centre and those who might be switching sides. Giorgia Meloni is present, with her curly hair in the front row, being feted – you wouldn’t think she was a Trump-style figure.

Leonardo Maria Del Vecchio enters with the little girl in his arms (somewhat awkwardly). Ilaria D’Amico introduces him as Edoardo Maria Del Vecchio (could he be another brother?). LMDV remains unperturbed, talking about columnists, editors, journalism and things that need renewing. He explains that columnists need someone to provide them with the tools and ‘arrows’ to revitalise something that has become somewhat stale. A few editors glance around, as if searching for a metaphorical duster. Then it is Mario Orfeo’s turn; he speaks non-stop, without pausing for breath, and announces a ‘platform made up of people’. Although the precise meaning remains unclear, the audience applauds enthusiastically. There is curiosity in the air, along with camera flashes and smiles, and one question lingers: what will the editorial line be? With or without curls? Good luck. And yum yum.