Giuseppe Cali’s paintings at Salesian Theatre restored through BOV’s support

a wall-painted lunette by renowned Maltese artist Giuseppe Cali, found at the Salesian Theatre in Sliema, is being restored through the support of Bank of Valletta. The restoration project also includes relief decorations in gesso by Vincenzo Cardona.

The Salesian Theatre was built between 1907 and 1908 on land donated by the philanthropist Alfons Maria Galea. The theatre was also known as the Juventutis Domus. The proscenium was decorated in 1910 with reminiscent oil on stone painting entitled The Virtues of Mankind by Calì. The painting is surrounded by rich basrelief, pre-art deco stucco decorations full of symbolism.

The painted lunette represents the virtues of mankind, represented within a semicircular composition with the central allegorical figure of Religion stretching out her arms in a gesture combining blessing and protection. On the left side the figure of Truth is found seated summarising the tension resulting from the threat of doubt and error. On the right side of Religion kneels the figure of Justice, holding the symbols of the lily and the scales. On the extreme left, loving care is represented by means of a young semi-clothed boy offering assistance to a frail man.

Ernest Agius, the bank’s chief Operating officer, visited the theatre where the restoration, being carried out by Prevarti, the art conservators, is nearing completion. In his comments during this visit, Agius stated that: “Bank of Valletta is proud that the conservation and enjoyment of the Maltese historical heritage are an integral part of its ESG agenda. The local heritage is lent to us as the current generation and it is our duty to do the utmost to preserve it in the best possible way for future generations. The Salesians of Don Bosco arrived in Malta in 1903 and built this place to serve as a refuge and education in academic and vocational skills for orphans and those in need.”

“With this support Bank of Valletta is strengthening its commitment as a leading patron in the preservation of the Maltese national heritage while also providing a useful involvement in the roots of the Maltese community. It is an honour for Bank of Valletta that this investment will be leaving a better legacy than the one we inherited.”