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Vigilo - Din l-Art Ħelwa Issue 55 • MAY 2021
Appeal to save the
‘marouflage paintings’
in Nadur, Gozo By Amy Sciberras and Ian Camilleri
An ambitious project is underway to conserve and restore the marouflage paintings that embellish the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Nadur, Gozo. These are part of the artistic legacy of the renowned artist Ġużeppi Briffa (1901-1987) and vividly represent the crucifixion of Christ and the blessed sacraments in a style influenced by Art Nouveau.
U
nfortunately, Briffa’s paintings in Nadur have been in dire need of conservation for many years and if not treated urgently the Maltese Islands risk losing a unique set of paintings within this devotional church which is frequented daily by many local people for religious services, along with numerous sightseers.
(Top) The dome paintings still not concealed by the current platforms, as photographed in June 1988. Photo courtesy of Johnaton Grech. (Above) The interior of the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Scaffolding assembled by Agius Stone Works Ltd.
