X-radiograph(s) of "St. Francis" 

Curator: We're examining an X-radiograph of "St. Francis," attributed to Peter Paul Rubens. The piece resides at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: My initial impression is one of ghostly forms. The image, lacking color, presents a somber, almost ethereal quality, revealing hidden layers beneath the surface. Curator: Indeed. X-rays such as this allow us to see alterations made by the artist, perhaps revealing changes in the saint's posture or the addition of symbolic elements. This process unearths decisions made, offering insight into the artist’s intent and the cultural symbolism embedded within. Editor: Structurally, the composition seems quite dynamic even in this abstracted form. The swirling patterns suggest movement and emotion, revealing Rubens’s skill even beneath the visible surface. Curator: Precisely. The X-ray serves as a powerful reminder that images hold deeper meanings, reflecting complex narratives of faith, artistic practice, and cultural memory. Editor: It's fascinating to see how the inherent structure and composition persevere even in this medium. It offers an entirely new perspective on artistic creation.