In the frame

Forgotten artwork is Venetian masterpiece

- Chris Riches

A PORTRAIT kept in National Trust storage for 35 years has been revealed to be a work by one of the most "successful female artists of any era".

The Portrait of a Tyrolese Lady has been part of Tatton Park's collection since the 18th century, but until now had not been confirmed as an original by the Venetian Rosalba Carriera.

It was on display at the country estate in Knutsford, Cheshire, until 1987 when it was taken down for redecoration and stored away.

The piece re-emerged when a New York art museum got in touch while tracing Carriera's works.

Exciting

Staff dusted it down and found a prayer card in the frame, proving it was by the renowned Venetian.