X-radiograph(s) of "Self-Portrait (copy)" 

Curator: This is an X-radiograph of a copy of Peter Paul Rubens' "Self-Portrait," now at the Harvard Art Museums. It's fascinating to see a portrait revealed in this way, stripped down to its essential structure. Editor: It's eerie. You see the weave of the canvas so clearly, with this ghostly figure emerging from the ground. It feels like a memento mori. Curator: X-rays reveal so much about artistic process. You see the density of the paint layers, the way the artist built up the image. They also help us authenticate works and uncover hidden details! Editor: Indeed. And it makes you think about the physical labor involved—the preparing of the canvas, the grinding of pigments, the application of layer upon layer. It’s all there, invisibly present, now made visible through technology. Curator: Yes, and think of the original self-portrait: Rubens immortalizing himself. This copy, then x-rayed, creates layers of meaning, questioning authorship, originality, even mortality. Editor: It is a powerful reminder of what lies beneath the surface of art, both literally and figuratively. Curator: A potent and revealing image, offering a unique perspective on creation. Editor: Absolutely, a compelling study in art and technology.