A still life painting from one of Shropshire’s historic houses is set to embark on a journey across the pond to reunite with its other half.

Still Life with Fruit, Bird’s Nest and Insects by eminent Dutch flower painter Rachel Ruysch (1664-1750) normally hangs in the Library at the National Trust’s Dudmaston Hall.

The painting is being flown over the Atlantic to feature in a brand new exhibition opening this spring at The Toledo Museum of Art in Ohio, USA.

Rachel Ruysch: Nature into Art will feature the painting alongside its pendant, or partner painting, Flowers in a Glass Vase, amongst other works by the artist.

The paintings were sold separately in 1848 and have never been publicly displayed together. Dudmaston’s painting was bought by Francis Darby in the same year, from whom it was ultimately inherited by Rachel Labouchere, the last owner of Dudmaston, and it has stayed at the Bridgnorth country house ever since.

A pendant is one of two pieces of artwork that are intended to be displayed close together. Typically, pendants share similar themes and complementary styles.

The exhibition’s 57 paintings by this female artist comprise over a third of her surviving work and visitors can expect to learn more about Ruysch’s fascinating life story.

Staying closer to home, art lovers are encouraged to pay a visit to Inspired by Nature at Dudmaston Hall this spring. This exhibition, which features artwork by John Nash and Mary Grierson, amongst others; celebrates the power, beauty and influence of the natural world.

The galleries at Dudmaston Hall reopen Sunday - Thursday from Sunday 16 March until the end of October. The historic rooms reopen on Sunday 30 March until the end of September. Normal admission applies, free entry for National Trust members.