Updated
A special climate-controlled chamber housing Andrei Rublev's 15th-century 'Trinity' icon, transferred to the Russian Orthodox Church in 2023, broke down several months ago, according to independent outlet Meduza citing religious affairs researcher Ksenia Luchenko and Ekho. A German specialist previously repaired the chamber but has been unable to return to fix it again after it failed a second time, raising concerns the historic icon is warping. The incident has drawn attention to the handling of the priceless artwork since its transfer from state museum custody to church control, a move that was controversial among art historians and preservationists at the time. The case underscores broader questions about cultural heritage management in Russia amid the ongoing war and its effects on international cooperation and access to foreign expertise.