2004 – Roman Baroque Sculpture for the Knights of Malta

The purpose of this work is to study the mechanics of the patronage of Roman Baroque sculpture for the Knights of the Order of St John (author). It does so by combining the extent of the Order’s patronage, together with the artistic and historical importance of the works commissioned. Leading period artists such as Alessandro Algardi, Ciro Ferri and Melchiorre Cafa are thoroughly examined and new attributions are made. Moreover, Sciberras’ research sheds light on the less known aspects of the liaisons between Malta and Rome on this matter, answering questions such as, who took care of the Order’s artistic affairs in Rome and how did the works of art travel to Malta?
The book divides the sculptural works of art into three categories. The glorification of the Order’s patron St John the Baptist; the funerary monuments of the Grand Masters, and the service and adoration of the Eucharist. Roman Baroque Sculpture for the Knights of Malta is an outstanding work of intense research, providing the reader with new, detailed information. It is also a tribute to Malta’s most magnificent artistic period and to the Order who made it possible.

Keith Sciberras is a lecturer in History of Art at the University of Malta. His field of specialisation is Baroque Art and he has published works on sculpture, the mechanics of artistic patronage and Caravaggio.