X-radiograph(s) of "St. Luke Painting the Virgin" 

Curator: Here we see an X-radiograph of “St. Luke Painting the Virgin,” made by an anonymous artist. It is currently held at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: Wow, it feels like looking at a ghostly apparition, a captured secret whispering from the past. Curator: Indeed, this image allows us to analyze the painting’s underlayers, revealing compositional changes made by the artist, and shedding light on the artistic process. Editor: The stark contrast emphasizes the Virgin's gentle expression, and I almost feel I can see the artist's hand moving across the canvas. Curator: Understanding the historical context—the role of St. Luke as the patron saint of artists—enriches our interpretation of the narrative. Editor: It's a privilege to see a work peeled back like this, revealing its hidden story. Curator: It offers a window into understanding artistry and iconography. Editor: A beautiful, if eerie, way to appreciate artistic creation.