Important document found at St Augustine Priory

A music and literary evening was held at St Augustine church, Victoria, to mark the recent discovery of an important document in the Priory archives that the titular painting of the church is attributed to Mattia Preti and bottega (c.1694).

Paul Cassar said he came across the document while carrying out research work in the archives of St Augustine Priory. He said the document revealed information on the commission, the structural preparations, donations and payment of the church’s titular painting.

Mr Cassar said the painting, which depicts St Augustine together with St John the Baptist and William of Aquitaine, was attributed to Preti’s late work (1613-1699).

The painting was restored by Gozitan artist and restorer Godwin Cutajar in 1997.

During the evening, Mario Micallef also gave an extensive outlook of the Augustinian Friars’ historical link with Gozo. St Augustine church and priory are considered among the oldest and finest architectural and artistic buildings in Gozo.

The celebration, organised by the Augustinian community in collaboration with Pope John II Foundation, included selections from the repertoire of famous composers.

Soprano Claudia Tabone and baritone Kevin Caruana gave a rendition of works by Mozart, Handel, Faure, Schubert and Gaberain, accompanied on the piano by Stephen Attard.