Rihanna's bruised photographs appear on website

The photograph of a badly bruised pop-star Rihanna taken immediately after she was allegedly assaulted by her former boyfriend singer Chris Brown has appeared on TMZ.com.

In the shocking picture the 20-year-old 'Umbrella' singer appears to have injuries on her forehead, a bloody split lip and some bruises on the nose.

The source of the image remains unconfirmed till now.

Rihanna left for her native country Barbados after the alleged assault in the early hours on February 8.

The fight broke out between the former couple ahead of their scheduled performances at the Grammys, which was later canceled. The injured singer announced her break-up with Brown this week.

Brown, later surrendered himself before the Los Angeles police and is now facing charges of criminal threats following the heated argument.

The 19-year-old 'Run It' singer released a statement on Sunday saying he was "saddened" by the incident, and was now getting counselling from his pastor and his family.

Earlier this week, Rihanna's cousin said that the star's injuries were not as "as bad as people make them sound".

Yvonne Fenty said, "Rihanna is holding up well. Everyone is looking after her. Her injuries weren't near as bad as people make them sound."

Rihanna has yet to issue an official statement about the incident.