X-radiograph(s) of "Winter Scene" 

Editor: Here we see an X-radiograph of "Winter Scene" by Jan Molenaer, housed at the Harvard Art Museums. It's a rather ghostly image. What does this x-ray reveal to you? Curator: It reveals the history of labor and material. X-radiography allows us to see the hidden layers, the underpainting and revisions made during the painting process. Consider the cost and accessibility of materials at the time. Editor: So, it's about the artist's process and the materials they could afford? Curator: Exactly. The x-ray shows the artist's hand, their choices constrained by resources and the art market of the time. What's visible isn't just a winter scene, but the economic realities of art production. Editor: That makes me think about the unseen labor behind art. Thanks for sharing that perspective! Curator: My pleasure. It's a good reminder to look beyond the surface.