X-radiograph(s) of "John Rogers" 

Curator: This haunting image is an X-radiograph of the painting "John Rogers," attributed to John Smibert. The film measures 14 x 17 inches. What strikes you? Editor: Immediately, the starkness. It's a ghost of a portrait, revealing the hidden layers beneath what was once visible. I'm interested in the radiation used to look into the past. Curator: Indeed, the X-ray reveals the painting's support and the distribution of pigment. In the context of portraiture, what does it mean to expose the unseen infrastructure? Editor: It challenges the traditional power dynamics of portraiture, stripping away the facade of the sitter and artist to show the vulnerability of the piece. How can we examine the historical portraiture tradition through the lens of contemporary imaging techniques? Curator: It reframes our understanding of art history, I agree. The X-ray is, in itself, a political tool. Editor: Precisely. It’s about seeing beyond the surface, both literally and figuratively. Curator: Food for thought, and a potent image. Editor: Absolutely. It stays with you.