X-radiograph(s) of "St. Francis" 

Curator: This is an X-radiograph of an anonymous painting of Saint Francis, part of the Harvard Art Museums collection. The film itself measures 14 by 17 inches. Editor: There’s an unsettling beauty to this spectral image. The stark contrast reveals the inner structure, the skeletal framework beneath the surface. Curator: Indeed. X-radiography allows us to look beyond the visible, offering insight into the artist's process, the layering of paint, and any underlying damages or repairs. It's a glimpse into the biography of the object itself. Editor: Notice how the saint's face and hands are rendered with a surprisingly delicate touch, even in this medium. The play of light and shadow creates a sense of depth and volume. Curator: Absolutely, and understanding the material history of an artwork like this enriches its cultural significance. We see not just a religious icon, but a physical object with its own story to tell about artmaking practices. Editor: It truly gives a new perspective; the ethereal composition reveals the underlying construction.