X-radiograph(s) of "Self-Portrait" 

Editor: This is an X-radiograph of Rembrandt’s "Self-Portrait" from the Harvard Art Museums. The image feels so haunting, almost like a ghostly impression. What visual symbols stand out to you in this piece? Curator: The stark contrast in the X-ray reveals more than just the artist's likeness. Consider the skull beneath the surface, the memento mori. What does the presence of that symbol tell us about Rembrandt's understanding of mortality and the self? Editor: That's fascinating. I hadn't considered the memento mori aspect so explicitly. Thanks for pointing that out! Curator: My pleasure. It is through symbols like these that the past continues to speak to us, isn't it?