Set the scene.
Antonio Sciortino was born in Ħaż-Żebbuġ in 1879. He became a major Maltese sculptor, creating work for Malta while spending much of his working life in Rome.
Here’s the twist.
His influences included Realism, Futurism and Auguste Rodin. From 1911 to 1936, he directed the British Academy of Arts in Rome. His career crossed borders while maintaining a strong connection with Malta.
Why it still matters.
Later he became curator of Malta’s Fine Arts Museum. His plaster models and drawings, bequeathed to the nation, show the thinking behind finished sculptures. A model is part of the creative story, not just a smaller copy.
🧠 One to think about +
What does this story change about the way you see Malta today? Pick one detail you’d tell a friend — then check its source below.
