A new exhibition at the Hungarian National Gallery showcases two centuries of Hungarian art, highlighting a compelling interplay between weighty and delicate styles, and the sublime and ironic. The display demonstrates the fragmented nature of the Italian experience within Hungarian art, while simultaneously revealing a rich spectrum of interpretations surrounding the concept of the “sweet life” – *dolce vita*. The exhibition suggests that a complete understanding of Italy’s influence is unattainable, but its sweetness possesses over fifty shades of meaning. By presenting contrasting artistic approaches, the gallery explores the complex relationship between Hungarian artists and Italian inspiration. The curation emphasizes the multifaceted nature of artistic expression and the subjective interpretation of cultural influences. The show aims to provide a nuanced perspective on Hungarian art history through the lens of Italian artistic dialogue.