In a momentous occasion for art enthusiasts around the world, the renowned Prado museum in Madrid is set to showcase a recently authenticated painting by the celebrated 17th Century artist Caravaggio. Titled "Ecce Homo," the masterpiece depicts the Roman governor Pontius Pilate presenting Christ to the people.

With only around 60 known works by the Italian genius, "Ecce Homo" was initially attributed to a lesser artist and nearly went unnoticed by the wider art community. However, its true status was revealed when it was withdrawn from auction by the Spanish government in 2021, just hours before it was scheduled to be sold with an opening price of €1,500 (£1,280).

Now, after three years of anticipation, the painting is finally being exhibited for the first time since its authentication. The Prado museum, earlier this month, declared "Ecce Homo" as an undisputed Caravaggio masterpiece, hailing its discovery as one of the greatest in the history of art. Caravaggio, often credited for pioneering modern painting, holds a significant place in the art world.

Believed to have once belonged to the private collection of Spain's King Philip IV, "Ecce Homo" graced the apartments of his son, Charles II, before mysteriously resurfacing in Madrid in April 2021. Initially, experts classified it as the work of an artist from the circle of 17th Century Spanish painter José de Ribera. However, suspicions about its true authorship arose within the Prado, leading the Spanish culture ministry to halt its sale.

The painting will be showcased until October in a special one-off exhibition, thanks to an agreement with its new owner, reportedly a British national residing in Spain. Following the exhibition, "Ecce Homo" will find a permanent place in the Prado's collection for an additional four months. Spanish media reports suggest that the painting changed hands for an impressive €36 million (£30.6 million).

Jorge Coll, head of the London art gallery Colnaghi that facilitated the sale, assured the public that the artwork would remain on loan to public collections rather than being confined to the owner's home. This decision ensures that art enthusiasts from all walks of life will have the opportunity to appreciate Caravaggio's genius.

The unveiling of "Ecce Homo" at the Prado museum is undoubtedly a momentous event that will attract visitors from all over the world. This remarkable piece adds to the rich tapestry of Caravaggio's iconic works and reaffirms his influential role in shaping the history of art.