The latest Easter edition of Treasures of Malta has been on my desk for weeks, but before delving into it, I must first reflect on the Christmas issue - a publication rich in content and engaging research. This is not the kind of journal where one can afford to skip the editorial, especially with Judge Emeritus Giovanni Bonello at the helm. His writing is always insightful, keeping us informed on cultural developments while offering literary gems.
Since the last issue, Judge Bonello has received another prestigious award - this time from The National Book Council: the 2024 Special Prize for Lifetime Achievement in Literature. With such accolades, one can only wonder where he keeps them all!
Issue 91 of Treasures of Malta spans over 100 pages of research and illustrations, beginning with an article by Kylie Aquilina titled The Presence of Gahan in Malta's Visual Culture. Gahan, the Maltese iteration of a folklore trickster, is well known for his persona as a wise fool. This article examines his visual representation throughout Maltese history, featuring illustrations by celebrated artists Robert Caruana Dingli and Willie Apap. While Gahan is integral to Malta's cultural identity, variations of his character exist across the Mediterranean.
The theme of historical documentation continues with Emanuel Chetcuti's article Valletta and the Three Cities: A Seventeenth-Century Map by Jean Boulanger. Maps have been a powerful force throughout history shaping the way civilizations have understood the world and navigated it. They are more than just tools for finding one's way - they've influenced trade, politics, exploration and even warfare. They also define borders and ownership, sometimes leading to disputes or reinforcing power dynamics between nations. Look at Russia and the Ukraine today.
Articles about maps regularly feature in Treasures.In this issue Emanuel Chetcuti an independent researcher with a keen interest in maps of Malta printed prior to the twentieth century, authored an eleven page article and provides a meticulously researched review of a 1645 map of Malta, offering valuable insights into cartography's role in shaping the world: Valletta and the Three Cities: A seventeenth-century map by Jean Boulanger. I am forever amazed at so many Maltese researchers who find the time and inclination to do research such as this.
Judge Emeritus Giovanni Bonello contributes another fascinating piece: Malta at the 1924 Wembley Exhibition. Marking a century since Malta's participation in the exhibition, the article details the construction of the Malta Pavilion, designed by Giuseppe Cachia Caruana. The Pavilion featured works by renowned Maltese artists such as Calì, Lazzaro Pisani, Gianni Vella as well as a wide range of local products - from filigree and pottery to oranges and honey. The most striking exhibit for me, at least, was a wrought iron gate, which receives further attention in John Magro's article. What a beauty... what talent. Read all about it.
The issue also includes Edward de Gaetano's heartfelt piece in the series My Favourite Object, where he recounts discovering that a cherished painting in his home was created by his maternal grandmother. His words beautifully capture the deep connection that art can create across generations.
Professor Mario Pace presents The Renaissance of Carlo Magri (1617-1693): Unveiling Malta's Intellectual Dramatist, a comprehensive biography exploring the life of Magri - a priest and academic who played a significant role in Malta's intellectual scene. Despite his age and declining vision, Magri remained active until his passing in 1693. His is truly a life well lived.
Another insightful article, Fort Chambray's Polverista by Joseph Scicluna, examines the Polverista of Fort Chambray in Gozo. As the fort faces gradual decline thanks to the unsatiable greed of some, this piece sheds light on its historical significance, beautifully illustrated to provide a glimpse into its past.
The issue rounds off with book reviews, cultural commentary, and an index to Volume XXX. With such a wealth of information, my only lament is that there isn't more time to immerse myself in every detail!
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Art Exhibitions in Malta
Several exhibitions are currently taking place across Malta. Here are two of them:
- Madeleine Vella Satariano's Creative Force opens today at Il-Razzett Tal-Markiz Mallia Tabone, Mosta, running until May 25, 2025.
- Opening hours: Monday-Friday (10:00 AM-12:00 PM, 6:00 PM-8:00 PM), Saturday & Sunday (10:00 AM-12:00 PM, 6:00 PM-8:00 PM).
Sarah Calleja's Tonal Whispers - her third solo exhibition - is open at Camilleri Paris Mode in Rabat until May 31.