A Renaissance work of art, once dismissed as being near-worthless, went on display to the public at its north-east home over the weekend.
More than 100 people flocked to Haddo House to catch a glimpse of the painting of the Madonna, which has been valued at as much as £20m.
Art experts revealed last week it was probably the work of 16th century icon, Raphael. The painting, called the Virgin Mary, had hung on the walls of the 18th-century building for years, but, after being removed and cleaned professionally, went on display for the first time.
The art world originally thought the work, dubbed the Haddo Madonna, was done by Innocenzo da Imola.
But when Bendor Grosvenor and Jacky Klein were filming the BBC documentary series, Britain’s Lost Masterpieces, they concluded it was too good to be an “after Raphael” piece.
Haddo House welcomed people from as far away as Inverness on both Saturday and Sunday, all of whom were keen to get a look at the lost masterpiece.
Ian Jackson, a senior visitor experience staff member at the house, said last night he was “absolutely delighted” with the response.
He added: “We had over 70 people in on Saturday and hopefully that number in again today.
“We’ve had more than 100 in over the two days, a couple have come from as far as Inverness, but there have also been local people in to see it.
“We’re absolutely delighted to see so many people taking an interest.
“The fact it is a piece of art by Rafael, one of the greatest Renaissance artists, and it is available in a home, as opposed to a museum, is bound to generate interest.
He added: “We hope to be open again next weekend to allow people in to have another look.”
Details on when to view the Virgin Mary painting can be found on the National Trust for Scotland’s website.
