EDWARD CARANUA DINGLI (MALTESE, 1876-1950)
Bird market St John's Square de la Valletta, Malta
signed and dated 'E C Dingli/19**' (lower left)
watercolour
42 x 28 cm (16 1/2 x 11 in.)
overall framed: 55 x 41 cm (21 5/8 x 16 1/8 in.)

Edward Caruana Dingli (1876–1950) was a prominent Maltese artist renowned for his portraiture and depictions of Maltese rural life. He is often regarded as one of Malta's most significant and influential painters of the early 20th century.

Caruana Dingli initially studied at the Malta Lyceum. His talent was recognised early, and he received formal artistic training under the guidance of Giuseppe Cali, a leading Maltese painter. Later, he continued his studies in Rome, Italy, where he was exposed to the broader European artistic trends that would influence his work.
He is particularly celebrated for his portraits, which often depicted prominent figures in Maltese society, including members of the aristocracy, clergy, and military. His portrait work is characterised by its realism, attention to detail, and the ability to capture the personality and status of his subjects.
In addition to portraiture, Caruana Dingli is well-known for his depictions of Maltese rural life. His genre paintings often illustrate traditional Maltese customs, everyday activities, and the picturesque landscapes of the island. These works are imbued with a sense of national pride and provide valuable insights into Maltese culture during the early 20th century, as can be seen in the present work.
His style is a blend of realism and romanticism, with a focus on light, colour, and composition. He was deeply influenced by his studies in Rome, which is reflected in the classical techniques and attention to detail in his works. His paintings often exude a sense of warmth and vibrancy, capturing the Mediterranean light and the unique character of the Maltese people and landscape.