A rare early painting by Vincent van Gogh, known as Head of a Peasant Woman in a White Headdress (Tete de paysanne à la coiffe blanch), has been sold for several million euros at an art fair in the Netherlands, Report informs via The National News UAE.

The sale took place at the annual European Art Fair (Tefaf) in Maastricht, where the painting was listed with an asking price of €4.5 million ($4.9 million).

Bill Rau, president of MS Rau Gallery, confirmed the sale to a museum. He said “It has been sold to a museum outside the European Union.

“We cannot discuss the price,” he said reflecting the gallery's commitment to privacy and discretion in such high-profile transactions.

The painting, which dates back to around 1884, represents a pivotal moment in van Gogh's career when he lived in Nuenen, a year before he completed The Potato Eaters.

The Dutch national news agency ANP said: “Although the name of the private museum was not given, 'it will be accessible to the public',” ensuring that this masterpiece will be enjoyed by future generations.