Review: Thirty years of treasures

Treasures of Malta

Ed. Giovanni Bonello No. 83, Vol. 28, Issue 2

Published by Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the setting up of Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti, of which Treasures of Malta has remained its glorious flagship publication. The editorial of the present issue rightly crows about its shining achievements, exceptional exhibitions, luscious, researched publications, and the stewardship of Norman House in Mdina.

No mean achievements in a country that has tended to be laid low by sheer greed and the incurable virus of philistinism. At an age when only price seems to decide the worth of anything, the Fondazzjoni has bravely soldiered on, a beacon of good taste and lasting values.

An elegant plaster cast of Dance Classique by Ġorġ Borg (1906-83) graces the cover. Sabrina Calleja Jackson gives a concise appraisal of the work which today lies at the MUŻA together with brief biographical information about the artist.

Borg’s work was inspired by Mary Scicluna (1913-90), Sir Hannibal Scicluna’s daughter. Trained in classical dance by Nathalie Poutiatine, she performed in two concerts at the Royal Opera House in 1933 and 1934 at a time when the...