Painting considered a fake revealed as a work by Dutch master Vincent van Gogh

A painting long-thought to be a fake has been confirmed as a piece by Dutch master Vincent van Gogh.

The work – called ‘Sunset at Montmajour’ and made when van Gogh was living in Arles, France – had long been hidden away in an attic.

But new evidence, including a letter from van Gogh referring to his work, have convinced the arts world the painting is genuine.

Axel Rueger, director of the Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam, described the discovery as a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience.

He added: “We’re very happy, it is a very special moment for us. This is a unique moment in the museum’s history. The fact that we can add such an important work to Vincent van Gogh’s list of works is great.

“What makes this even more exceptional is that this is a transition work in his oeuvre, and moreover, a large painting from a period that is considered by many to be the culmination of his artistic achievement, his period in Arles.”

The painting, owned by a private Norwegian collector, will go on show at the Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam later this month, for a year.