X-radiograph(s) of "Judgment of Otto" 

Editor: This is an X-radiograph of Dieric Bouts' "Judgment of Otto" from the Harvard Art Museums. It appears quite abstract in this form. How do you approach analyzing something like this? Curator: Indeed. Let us consider this X-radiograph as an index, a sign pointing to the underlying structure of the painting. Note the contrasting densities, revealing the artist's process. Editor: So, the darker areas represent denser materials? What can we learn from that? Curator: Precisely. We can deduce the application of pigments, potential underdrawings, and areas of restoration. Observe the composition revealed through these densities. Is it what you expected? Editor: It's fascinating to see art-making as a layered process, revealed through this unique visual language. Curator: Agreed. The radiographic image allows us to view the painting not as a finished product, but as a dynamic construction.