X-radiograph(s) of "Le Pont" Possibly 30 - 67

Curator: Here we see an x-radiograph of "Le Pont", originally by Gustave Courbet, residing in the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It looks like we're peering beneath the surface, a ghostly view revealing the canvas's very bones and structure. Curator: Indeed. This glimpse into the underlayers allows us to consider Courbet's process, how he might have built up the painting, and what alterations he may have made. Editor: It's fascinating to consider the materiality, the weave of the canvas itself, and how that dictated the application of paint. What about the social context of painting at the time? Curator: Absolutely. Courbet positioned himself in opposition to academic painting, emphasizing direct observation and the physical act of applying paint, making this radiographic view incredibly relevant to how we understand his radical approach. Editor: Seeing the infrastructure reminds me of the hidden labour that supports the facade of art. Curator: A fitting perspective. It underscores how much labour and technique went into even what appeared to be spontaneous works. Editor: This peek behind the curtain really makes me consider the raw physicality present even in fine art. Curator: And for me, it speaks to the institution's commitment to unveiling the complexities of art history.