X-radiograph(s) of "The Sacrifice of Iphigenia and Martyrdom of St. Agatha (fake)" Possibly 7 - 82

Curator: Here we have an X-radiograph of "The Sacrifice of Iphigenia and Martyrdom of St. Agatha (fake)", currently held at the Harvard Art Museums. The original artwork is thought to be in the style of Giovanni Battista Tiepolo. Editor: My first impression? It's like looking at a ghost story. This shadowy, almost spectral view gives it a completely different feel than what I imagine the original painting would have. Curator: Indeed. X-radiography allows us to see beneath the surface, revealing hidden layers and pentimenti, which provides critical information about artistic processes and later alterations or repairs. Editor: Knowing it's a "fake," adds a layer of intrigue. It's like peering into the secrets of an artful deception, a hidden narrative that the original artist never intended. Curator: Absolutely. These types of examinations are invaluable for authentication and understanding the history of art making practices. Editor: It's strangely beautiful, in its own right. Seeing the bones of the artwork, so to speak, opens up a whole new way to appreciate its construction. Curator: Precisely, it's a vital tool to see beyond the surface, offering an in-depth view into art's intricate and complex layers. Editor: A ghostly peek behind the curtain, a reminder that even fakes have their own story to tell.