The Department of Art and Art History, Faculty of Arts at the University of Malta has collaborated on the publication of a new volume entitled The Nadur Basilica in Gozo: Art - Architecture - Decoration edited by Dr Mark Sagona, visiting lecturer in the same department. The 200-page hardback and full-colour volume is lavishly illustrated with photography by Martin Attard. The other contributors, besides Dr Sagona who has written the lion’s share of the publication, are Professor Conrad Thake and history graduate Daniel Meilak M.A. Dr Sagona discusses the more significant paintings, statuary, ceiling decoration and the rather rich collection of silverplate and other decorative objets d’art. Prof. Thake analyses the architecture of the church while Mr Meilak writes about the essential historic context. Professor Keith Sciberras has written the foreword to the book.
The monumental Basilica dedicated to the Martyrdom of SS Peter and Paul rises on the Nadur hill, dominating the Gozo skyline. Its extensive remodelling in the early twentieth century at the hands of one of Malta’s most gifted artists, the sculptor and architect Francesco Saverio Sciortino (1875-1958) transformed it into an architectural landmark of considerable artistic significance. This was coupled by an important decorative project of painting, carving and stucco which transformed the interior into one of the finest in the Maltese Islands.
The volume brings to the attention of the art connoisseur and the general public the noteworthy collection of paintings and sculptures, together with decorative works in silver, wood, bronze, marble and stained glass. It scientifically discusses these works and places them – including the architectural fabric of the church – within their international and local context and provides the reader with essential material for the full understanding and appreciation of the art, architecture and decoration of this important church.
The book will be launched on Thursday 7 June 2018 at the Nadur Basilica in Gozo at 19:30. The general public is invited to attend.
Book specifications: 210 x 297mm, 200 pages, full-colour, hardback cloth cover with colour dust jacket, Design: Keen Ltd, Print: Progress Press, ISBN 978-99957-1-285-3.
Orders can be placed by sending an email on nadurbook@gmail.com or by calling on 21551649.