拍品專文
Standing at the crossroads of the Mediterranean trade routes, the island of Malta played a vital role in British foreign policy for the century and a half which followed its capture in 1799. With the magnificent deep-water harbour at Valetta chosen as the principal base for the Royal Navy's Mediterranean fleet, it's strategic importance continued until the Second World War during which Malta's contribution became the stuff of legend. Relentlessly bombed by both the German and Italian air forces, the city of Valetta and its huge dock facilities were severely damaged but such was the fortitude of the inhabitants that King George VI bestowed a unique honour upon the whole island by awarding it the George Cross in 1942.
Mason's atmospheric work shows Grand Harbour buzzing with activity and thronged with shipping, merchantmen and warships alike. On the horizon, an aircraft carrier and her escorts are making port and the whole scene is suggestive that the War is still in progress, albeit nearing its end.
Mason's atmospheric work shows Grand Harbour buzzing with activity and thronged with shipping, merchantmen and warships alike. On the horizon, an aircraft carrier and her escorts are making port and the whole scene is suggestive that the War is still in progress, albeit nearing its end.