The stunning news that an infamous Paul Delaroche painting, thought to be destroyed during World War II, has resurfaced is circulating quickly in Europe and elsewhere as it is prepared to be put on display.

Many believed that Delaroche's artwork "Charles I Insulted by Cromwell's Soldiers" was lost forever after a German bombing raid in 1941. The Independent reports it was rediscovered on June 7, and it will be unveiled on Feb. 24, 2010 at the National Gallery in London.

The news has generated substantial attention in the blogosphere and elsewhere. It's noted that the painting was "hidden away for decades" in Scotland and the 1836 artwork has only recently reappeared.

The painting is for many reasons historic. Besides its old age and link to World War II, the artwork itself depicts King Charles I of Britain shortly before his execution in 1649.