Senglea’s Redentur is undoubtedly Malta’s most iconic sacred statue. Revered by many during times of extreme hardship and sorrow, the effigy was always shrouded in mystery until a conservation project was initiated in 2018. To discuss the history, art and cult of this iconic statue, the editor of the National Book Prize winning work Dr Jonathan Farrugia will be joined by the conservator responsible for the conservation of the statue, Valentina Lupo from Atelier del Restauro.
One of the most devout statues in Malta to depict Christ encumbered with the Cross, Senglea’s Christ the Redeemer (ir-Redentur) has long been thought miraculous, attracting devotees from across the islands. Drawing on its reputation and intriguing history, a team of Maltese scholars, under the editorship of Rev Dr Jonathan Farrugia present their findings. Shedding light on the development of its cult-status, the publication brings together the historical, ethnographical and iconographical study of the statue within the context of the Arch-confraternity of the Holy Crucifix and the Good Friday procession with previously unpublished archival research, scientific analysis on its structure and materials, manufacturing technique and past restoration history, before finally delving into this state-of-the-art conservation project.
Jonathan Farrugia is a catholic priest lecturer in Patristics within the department of Church History, Patrology and Palaeochristian Archaeology and other matters related to ancient Christian beliefs and texts, such as Spirituality and Liturgy. In 2020 he was awarded the National Book Prize for the book he edited: Ir-Redentur. History, Art, and Cult of the Miraculous Effigy of Christ the Redeemer at Senglea, Malta winner of the Biographical and Historiographical Research category.
