Ave Maria Triptych

Alternate title

The Nativity Triptych

Artist Anton Inglott Maltese, 1915 - 1945

Date1940-45

Period20th century

Classification(s)

Art / Paintings

Object TypePainting

Registration NumberFAS/P/671

DescriptionAnton Inglott started his studies at the Government School of Art whilst also attending nude classes at the Studio Artistico Industriale which then led Inglott to further his studies at the Regia Accademia in Rome. One of Inglott’s most important and popular pieces within the National Collection is this oil-on-panel ‘Ave Maria Triptych’ (or The Nativity Triptych) which was produced during the Second World War. This architectural-like triptych shows a Nativity scene on the right-hand side, the Virgin Mary in the central panel and the Annunciation on the left-hand panel. Its arched window-like frame is considered to be an artwork on its own. The ‘Ave Maria Triptych’ presents Inglott’s maturity in his field. Here, the artist encompasses all his research and studies in Rome by using the beam of light as a major source to stage the elegant figures in this composition, as well as his mastery in colour and narration. This work follows a much-stylised equilibrium where all the figures are simplified in a way to deliver what is necessary in a minimalist manner. The figures are rather elongated, especially the figures of the angels. Both foreground and background are kept decoratively minimal which makes the viewer look directly at the figures.Material

Oil on panel

Technique

Painting

Dimensions160 x 181 cmProvenancePurchased by the Museum in 1980.

Alternate ID Numbers