A long-lost painting by Baroque master Peter Paul Rubens, which was hidden for more than four centuries, sold at 2.3 million euros ($2.7 million) at an auction Sunday in Versailles.

The painting was recently found in a private townhouse in Paris. It depicts the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Advertisement

It was part of a French collection and was initially thought to be from one of the many Rubens workshops that existed at the time. The artwork was rarely valued at more than 10,000 euros ($11,500).

"I immediately had a hunch about this painting, and I did everything I could to try to have it authenticated," auctioneer Jean-Pierre Osenat told The Associated Press. "And finally, we managed to have it authenticated by the Rubenianum, which is the Rubens committee in Antwerp."

Nils Büttner

See Full Page