X-radiograph(s) of "Man of van Beresteyn Family" 

Editor: This is an X-radiograph of "Man of van Beresteyn Family," by Jacob Adriaensz. Backer. The starkness of the image makes me wonder about what lies beneath the surface of this portrait. What secrets do you think an X-ray can reveal about the sitter's identity or the artist’s process? Curator: X-rays peel back layers, revealing not just the artist's hand, but also cultural memory embedded in the sitter's portrayal. The ruff, for instance, speaks volumes about status and societal expectations of the time. Do you see how its prominence almost eclipses the man himself? Editor: Yes, the ruff is so striking. I didn't realize how much it symbolizes. Curator: These symbols become a kind of visual shorthand, carrying cultural weight across generations. Considering this, how does the radiographic view affect your perception of the man's identity versus his societal role? Editor: It makes me think about how identity is constructed and perceived. It's more complex than just the surface. Thanks for the insights!