X-radiograph(s) of "Portrait of Martin Luther" Possibly 13 - 50

Curator: This is an X-radiograph of a portrait of Martin Luther, originally by Lucas Cranach the Elder. The film itself measures about 8 by 10 inches. Editor: My first impression is one of stark revelation; it's like seeing beneath the surface, not just of the painting, but of the man himself. Curator: Absolutely. X-radiography offers a glimpse into the artist's process, revealing underdrawings and pentimenti—changes made during the painting's creation. It gives us a forensic view of an iconic image. Editor: The stark contrast amplifies the lines and forms, abstracting Luther into a network of shapes. It’s fascinating how the familiar face is rendered almost alien. Curator: And consider Luther's enduring image, meticulously crafted by Cranach. The radiographic distortions remind us that even the most powerful symbols are subject to time and decay. Editor: Seeing the inner structure does change my appreciation for the finished work. It's a potent reminder of the layered nature of representation.