A stylistic and iconographic study of paintings of the Virgin of Mount Carmel in Malta from the 17th to the mid-20th century

Abstract

The aim of this dissertation is to provide a chronological study of the paintings of the Virgin of Mount Carmel in Malta, from the 17th century to the mid-20th century and also serves to quantify the works. Both recognized and anonymous works are included with a detailed critical and stylistic study in association with the development of their iconography. References have been made to other paintings, which may differ in iconography, in order to support some attributions. Amongst the texts that have been consulted are numerous publications of the Marian devotion during the 17th and 18th centuries. The most significant published research is that of Mario Buhagiar, Keith Sciberras, Vincent Borg and John Gash. Other important sources that provided a historical background to the paintings are those of Achille F erres and primary sources from the Archives of the Cathedral Museum at Mdina. However the study of the theme of the Virgin of Mount Carmel in an artistic context has never been undertaken as an isolated subject of study. Attributions and the dating of paintings presented were reached through a technical and stylistic analysis, Pastoral Visitation Reports and other numerous secondary sources. Many paintings of vernacular production, and those of limited quality, remain in search of an artist. An extended list of both altarpieces and devotional paintings, falling within the theme of the Virgin of Mount Carmel has been listed in alphabetical order according to location (Appendix 1).