London, Oct 16 : A self-portrait by Queen Victoria is to go on public display for the first time.

The sketch, which is to be exhibited next year, reveals how one of history's more misunderstood monarchs really saw herself.

It is from her personal sketchbook and shows the young Queen in her gown before a costume ball at Buckingham Palace in 1845, reports The Times.

The portrait shows a woman who was fond of music, art and dancing.

"I think it is quite insightful," said Caroline de Guitaut, a curator at the Royal Collection.

"It is interesting to see how she views herself. She looks very regal because she is wearing a grand dress. She stares right back at you. She looks at herself very closely. She has got a lot of confidence - you can see it in her eyes. This is a woman who knows her own mind," she added.

The portrait, which is inscribed by Victoria, "Ball dress May 19, 1845", shortly before her 26th birthday, will be part of an exhibition at The Queen's Gallery, Buckingham Palace, next March. (ANI)