X-radiograph(s) of "Mystic Marriage of St. Catherine" Possibly 24 - 47

Curator: Here we have an X-radiograph of the "Mystic Marriage of St. Catherine," a piece attributed to the circle of Fra Angelico, residing here at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: Intriguing. The stark contrast immediately evokes a sense of hidden narratives—layers revealed. Curator: Indeed, the radiographic technique allows us to peer beneath the surface, exposing the artist's process. We see the underpainting, the skeletal structure, if you will, of the composition. Editor: The ghostly forms hint at the mystical union, the ring a potent symbol of eternal commitment made visible through this scientific lens. What a commentary on spiritual union! Curator: The composition itself, revealed in grayscale, emphasizes the geometric framework underpinning the devotional image. The subtle shifts in tone highlight the density of materials. Editor: It’s quite powerful how a technique so modern exposes layers of meaning in a Renaissance masterpiece. Curator: Absolutely, a fascinating encounter between art and science that shifts our perspective. Editor: I find the X-ray allows us to see a different sort of beauty, one based on seeing beyond the veil.