Left to right: Christian Pace (Procurator, Archconfraternity of Our Lady of Mount Carmel), Valentina Lupo (Director and Conservator, Atelier del Restauro), Dr Mark Agius (Rector, Archconfraternity of Our Lady of Mount Carmel), Fr Alex Xerri O. Carm (Prior, Archconfraternity of Our Lady of Mount Carmel), Jeremy Vassallo (CSR Manager, APS Bank plc), and Carmel Pace (Vice Rector, Archconfraternity of Our Lady of Mount Carmel).
On July 9, 2023, the painting depicting the Immaculate Conception at the Sanctuary-Basilica and Carmelite Friary in Valletta was revealed after undergoing a restoration project. The painting is the work of Giuseppe D’Arena (1633-1719), an Italian artist who worked in Malta and was associated with Mattia Preti’s circle. The painting’s composition shows the influence of Preti’s altarpiece of the same subject, located in the Sarria Chapel in Floriana.
The unveiling of the restored painting was held in the Oratory where it was blessed by the Prior, Fr Alex Xerri O. Carm. Ms Valentina Lupo from Atelier del Restauro Ltd briefly explained the restoration process. The Rector of the Archconfraternity of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Dr Mark Agius, concluded with a few words on the importance of the Immaculate Conception to the Carmelite Order.
Jeremy Vassallo, CSR Manager at APS Bank, stated, “We believe in supporting such projects and initiatives that hold significant cultural and societal importance. APS Bank’s involvement in the restoration aligns with our purpose, and we are pleased to have contributed to making this restoration possible.”
