The Darmanin Artists

Decorative Marble Production for the British Empire

The Darmanin family of artists were the most prolific marble-producing firm in nineteenth-century colonial Malta. Besides carrying out diverse decorative art commissions for the local market, they secured many others from distinguished patrons outside Maltese shores. Being masters of their art, the Darmanin marmisti thrived and remained relevant throughout the century. Their work garnered the admiration of the British royal family, colonial officials and also attracted international acclaim. This publication takes a look at the marble output of these local artists and reveals the compelling impact that the British Empire had on their artistic production.