The restoration of the titular painting of the Annunciation of Mary in the Church of St Dominic in Vittoriosa has been completed, the Parliamentary Secretariat for Local Government stated.
The secretariat said that the restoration was carried out with the collaboration and financial support of the Kottonera Foundation. It said that the painting in question was painted in 1959 by the renowned artist Emvin Cremona, following the construction of the new Dominican church in Birgu. It commented that the painting is one of the largest done by Cremona, and is considered one of his masterpieces.
Parliamentary Secretary Alison Zerafa Civelli spoke of the importance of conserving the religious heritage in Kottonera. She said that the people, including those of Kottonera, have cultural and religious heritage close to their hearts, and therefore initiatives such as these are an important step so that such heritage is not lost. She said that the Kottonera Foundation is working hard to promote the cultural heritage and beauty of Kottonera, and added that this project demonstrates the government’s commitment to ensuring that Malta’s heritage remains for present and future generations.
Cottonera Foundaiton Chairman Joe Mizzi said that this project was completed in time for the feast of St Dominic which is to be celebrated in the coming week. He said that this project is one of several initiatives being carried out in other churches in Kottonera, many of which include restoration work. He said that the foundation is partnering with various other organisations and entities in Kottonera, with the aim of saving the heritage in that part of the country. “The foundation is supporting the conservation of everything that is part of Kottonera,” he commented.
The Prior of the Dominican Community in Vittoriosa, Father Aaron Zahra, thanked the Kottonera Foundation and the Central Government for the financial support that made this project possible. He spoke of how the painting is of great value to the Dominican Community in Birgu as it shows Marian devotion and its connection with the Dominican Order.
Restorer Valentina Lupo said that after the cleaning, reconstruction and restoration work, a protective varnish was applied, which includes a UV filter.
