A Leonardo da Vinci painting is due to go on public exhibition for the first time since its discovery in 2005.
The painting is entitled ‘Salvator Mundi’ (Saviour of the World), and shows Jesus with his right hand raised in blessing while his left hand holds a transparent globe.
The painting disappeared in the 17th century and was found hundreds of years later in a private collection. Experts believe it is the most precious art acquisition of the century, with the net worth being estimated at around $200 million. There are only 15 paintings by Da Vinci still in existence, including his more famous works ‘Mona Lisa’ and ‘The Last Supper’.
Now that the 500-year-old work has now been properly cleaned and restored, it will be on display at London's National Gallery in a special exhibition for the next year.
"As a painter, Leonardo aimed to convince viewers of the reality of what they were seeing while still aspiring to create ideals of beauty – particularly in his exquisite portraits – and, in his religious works, to convey a sense of awe-inspiring mystery," the exhibition description states.
The painting will also be featured in a special CNN series called ‘Leonardo - The Lost Painting.’
(Image from CNN).