Mattia Preti’s ‘Boethius and Philosophy’, oil on canvas masterpiece is the latest addition to the National Collection and will now be on display for viewing by the public at Malta’s National Community Art Museum (MUZA) from 17 July until 31 July.

This enrichment of Malta’s National Collection was made possible thanks to the Government’s acquisition of the major masterpiece just last February.

The acquisition of the monumental oil on canvas for the sum of €1,323,000 during Sotheby’s Old Master Auction in New York, was financed by the National Development and Social Fund.

According to the National Heritage, Arts and Local Government Minister Jose Herrera, ‘Boethius and Philosophy’ has strong links to Malta. “By acquiring it, we are returning it to its rightful owners, the Maltese people.” He said that this masterpiece is now officially under Heritage Malta’s wing, having been assigned with its stewardship for the benefit of present and future generations.  

“This acquisition was possible thanks to our collaboration with Government and the National Development and Social Fund,” stated Anthony Scicluna, Heritage Malta’s Chairperson. “I now look forward to completing the restoration works at the Grandmaster’s Palace, so as to display this work of art where it was first originally displayed.”  

“This acquisition, which is a first for NDSF, falls within one of the socio-economic aims in its founding regulations, that is, to protect and enrich the cultural and artistic heritage of our country,” asserted Raymond Ellul, the NDSF’s Chief Executive Officer.

“Mattia Preti’s painting of Boethius and Philosophy has all it takes to make it an extraordinary work,” explained Head of the Department of Art and Art History Prof Keith Sciberras. “It has technical quality, a sophisticated theme, a strong narrative and distinguished provenance.”