Paintings of the Holy Family, flight, presentation and circumcision in Maltese churches

Abstract

The scope of this long essay is to present a stylistic and iconographic research of paintings representing the Holy Family in different stages of their life. The paintings are divided chronologically as well as into altars, laterals, ceilings and lunettes, and also smaller works. They have all been studied in their proper art historical context,] as well as supported by critical and stylistic analysis. The research tries to trace the devotional popularity of these themes. The period being taken into consideration covers the mid-seventeenth century up till the late twentieth century, however, earlier examples have also been found in Malta and these are also given their importance. The study includes works by recognised and anonymous artists, both local and foreign. In the introduction of each chapter, importance has been given to foreign works which could have served to establish the iconography of the particular theme. Where possible, parallels with other paintings by the same artist have been made to further re-enforce the argument and attribution. All the works mentioned in this dissertation are housed in Maltese parish churches, vestries, filial churches as well as museums. A small number of vernacular works have also been included, these are of a low quality but still help to trace the devotion for such subjects. Due to the inappropriate location and state of conservation of some of the paintings, a proper examination could not be carried out, thus hindering a proper analysis of the painting. This study required archival research especially at the Cathedral Museum of Mdina and the Notaries Archives, particularly for the consultation of Pastoral Visitations and Notary Acts. Moreover, quite a large number of secondary sources have been adequately made use of.