Previously unknown self-portrait of Vincent van Gogh with pre-severed ear found under his artwork

A previously unknown self-portrait of Vincent van Gogh - complete with pre-severed ear - has been discovered, say experts.

Report informs, citing Sky News, that the artwork shows a bearded sitter in a brimmed hat with a neckerchief loosely tied at the throat.

His left ear, which he famously cut off in 1888, is clearly visible.

Believed to have been hidden from view for more than a century, the sketch was unearthed after an X-ray was taken of another of Van Gogh's works - Head of a Peasant Woman (1885) - and it was found on the back of the canvas, hidden by layers of cardboard.

Van Gogh was known for reusing canvas to save money by turning it round and working on the opposite side.