A WORK of art that has not been on public view for almost 20 years is to go back on display after being restored by experts.

The landscape with grazing cattle and sheep was painted by Thomas Sydney Cooper in 1856, and is one of two of his works owned by the Mercer Gallery in Harrogate, North Yorkshire.

It was in a very poor state of repair, with paint flaking from the canvas and the frame splintering.

Restorers in Sheffield and Hebden Bridge have restored the painting to pristine condition, and it will go on show in November.

The work was paid for by the Friends of the Gallery.

Curator Alistair Smith said: "They have done a magnificent job in restoring what is a very fine painting."

Cooper, who lived from 1803 to 1902, specialised in landscapes and became famous during his own lifetime for the quality of his work.