What are some rare works of art that were discovered after being missing for years?

Answer 1

Judith Beheading Holofernes by Caravaggio, which was painted c. 1598-1602, was rediscovered in 1950. Since only about 105 of his works have survived to this day, this was a very big deal. This particular biblical episode was painted by other artists of the time, as biblical themes were the most sought after by patrons of the arts. Some do question the authenticity of the painting, but there is no denying that the style is distinctly Caravaggio. If the piece is not an original, whoever made the copy is quite talented.