APS Bank, the owner of a recently discovered oil-on-canvas painting showing St Francis of Paola by Mattia Preti (aka Il Calabrese), decided to share this masterpiece with the general public.

To this end, the bank has agreed that the painting be permanently displayed at the Mdina Cathedral Museum.

The official presentation took place recently in the presence of Mgr Prof. Vincent Borg, chairman of the Cathedral Museum and Prof. E.P. Delia, chairman of APS Bank.

Mattia Preti’s painting, which is in very good condition and measures 71 cms by 58 cms, represents St Francis of Paola in half-length, facing left, gazing upwards towards heaven, while humbly touching his chest with his right hand. It is considered a fine example of Preti’s late austere style.

Prof. Delia expressed his satisfaction that the bank is able to offer a Preti for the enjoyment of art lovers. “APS Bank plays a significant role in the community and this is yet another opportunity for us to share an important work of art with the public. It is fitting that it should be displayed in the Cathedral Museum where everyone can enjoy it,” said Prof. Delia.

On his part Mgr Prof. Borg thanked APS Bank “for this generous act which will offer the Maltese public an opportunity to enjoy this painting by one of the great artists”.

The painting can be viewed by the public at the Mdina Cathedral Museum from Monday to Friday between 9.30am and 4.30pm, and Saturday between 9.30am and 3.30pm.