Sculpted out of marble by the Sicilian artist Giuseppe Valenti, the statue depicts the Queen sitting down and wearing a shawl of Maltese lace.

[3] In 1901, ten years after its inauguration, the statue became the focal point for the public mourning commemorations following the Queen's death.

[4] The monument probably suffered some damage from shrapnel and vibrations due to bombs exploding nearby during World War II.

The restoration was sponsored by M. Demajo Group and Din l-Art Ħelwa, while the Ministry of Resources and Rural Affairs provided some assistance.

[5] There were also those who came out against the statue's removal, including Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna founder Mario Farrugia[9] and culture minister José Herrera.