Ir-Redentur - History, Art, and Cult of the Miraculous Effigy of Christ the Redeemer at Senglea, Malta

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, Atelier del Restauro conservators and scientists from the Diagnostic Science Laboratories of Heritage Malta and the National Research Council of Italy (CNR-IVALSA) 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statue within the context of the Arch-confraternity of the Holy Crucifix and the Good Friday procession with previously unpublished archival research, scientific analysis on its structure and materials, manufacturing technique and past restoration history, before finally delving into this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.

Essays by Sandro Debono, Jonathan Farrugia, Valentina Lupo and Maria Grazia Zanzani, main photography by Joe P. Borg.