Doctors say it could be weeks before Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi fully recovers from an attack on Sunday in Milan that left him with a broken nose, two broken teeth and a cut lip.
Mr Berlusconi, 73, is in hospital and is reported to be in considerable pain.
The BBC reports he was hit by a statuette of Milan cathedral.
A man was arrested and charged with aggravated assault. The suspect, Massimo Tartaglia, 42, was said by police to have had a history of mental illness, receiving treatment over a 10-year period.
A medical bulletin issued at midday on Monday said Mr Berlusconi was taking pain killers and antibiotics.
His nose is to be reset and he has been given stitches, though he will not need surgery. He will stay in hospital at least until Tuesday.
The BBC reports the attack has caused deep shock in Italy. Politicians and columnists have suggested it reflects a climate of hatred which is dividing the nation
