BOLZANO, Italy—Contrary to press reports, Pope Benedict XVI did not speak out against Martin Kippenberger's crucified frog artwork, Artforum reports via the Süddeutsche Zeitung. The statement that allegedly came from the Pope, written to Italian politician Franz Pahl in support of his anti-frog campaign, was actually a response from the Vatican's state secretary to a letter from Pahl.

Kippenberger's sculpture, Zuerst die Füße (Feet First), has caused controversy since going on display at the Museion in Bolzano, Italy, in May. Last week, members of the museum's board voted to keep the piece on display until the end of the temporary exhibition of which it is a part.