On Friday 18th March 2022, the official inauguration of the restored, 17th century painting ‘Virgin and Child enthroned and flanked by St. John the Baptist and St. Publius’ by Mattia Preti was held at the parish church of St Paul, in Rabat, Malta. The ceremony was held in the presence of Hon. José Herrera, Minister for National Heritage, Arts and Local Government, representatives of APS Bank’s Senior Management, Archpriest Fr Joseph Mizzi, amongst other collaborators on this project, including Prevarti who were entrusted with the restoration works.
The conservation-restoration treatment of this altarpiece revived its aesthetic value and the brightness of its original colours. Michael Pace Ross, Non-Executive Director at APS Bank, who was present for this inauguration commented, “This restoration has been completed at a perfect time to be enjoyed by Pope Francis as he will be visiting St Paul’s Grotto and this Basilica on Sunday 3rd April.”
Rachael Blackburn, Head of Culture at APS Bank commented, “The impressive works by this Calabrian baroque artist and Knight, are important for our local cultural heritage. This is the fourth restoration of Mattia Preti’s works sponsored by APS Bank. The previous restoration depicts ‘The Martyrdom of St. Lawrence’ which was completed in 2021 and can be viewed at the Chapel of the langue of Aragon at St. John’s Co-Cathedral, Valletta.”
