Roman firm completes restoration of silver statues saved from Napoleon

The restoration of the 15 priceless silver statues known as L'Apostolato at the Metropolitan Cathedral, in Mdina, has been completed.

The restoration, carried out by Ditta Sante Guido of Rome, was supported by the HSBC Cares For Malta's Heritage Fund (HCMHF) and the Vodafone Malta Foundation.

Produced in the 18th century, the statues show exquisite workmanship and were donated to the Order of St John by two of its Balis.

"We congratulate all those involved in the restoration of L'Apostolato for a job well done," said Shaun Wallis, chairman of the HCMHF. "The beautiful statues are another testimonial of Malta's rich religious cultural heritage."

Gemma Mifsud Bonnici, chairman of the Vodafone Malta Foundation, said the foundation was proud to have contributed towards such a precious work of art that is part of Malta's heritage. "The Apostolato restoration involved a challenging job and its outstanding result will be benefited by the people of tomorrow."

The statues depict the 12 Apostles, the Blessed Virgin Mary (also called Turris Davidica), St Paul and St John the Baptist.

L'Apostolato is interesting not only for its intrinsic value but also for its history. When the Order of St John was expelled from Malta by Napoleon, the latter immediately took over most of the silver and gold from St John's, the Conventual church of the Order.

Had it not been for the foresight of the Cathedral Chapter, who accepted the proposal that these valuable silver statues be exchanged for other gold and silver articles, L'Apostolato would have been lost to the French. Months later, General Vaubois, left by Napoleon to govern Malta, unable to pay his troops, again tried to lay his hands on these statues and these had to be redeemed for a second time.