X-radiograph(s) of "View of the Rialto" 

Editor: This is an X-radiograph of "View of the Rialto," possibly by Francesco Guardi. It looks like a ghost image, and I'm struck by how this peek behind the surface transforms a recognizable scene. What can we learn from this hidden view? Curator: This radiograph gives us insight into the painting’s production; it’s like an archaeological dig into the artist’s process. You can see under layers of paint, revealing compositional changes. How do you think this kind of analysis shapes the way the public views art? Editor: It demystifies it, perhaps? It shows the artist's hand, the choices they made, and how paintings evolve. Curator: Precisely! And it raises questions about authenticity, artistic intent, and the very definition of a finished artwork in a museum setting. I've definitely learned a lot.