X-radiograph(s) of "Don Carlos and Dwarf" 

Curator: This is an x-radiograph of "Don Carlos and Dwarf," originally by Diego Velázquez. What catches your eye? Editor: The ghostly image—the weave of the canvas is so prominent, it feels almost like we're looking at the bones of the painting. Curator: Indeed, the x-ray reveals the material substructure but also hints at symbolic layers. Consider Velázquez's portrayal of power and marginality. Does this reveal new insights? Editor: It emphasizes the labor. Grinding pigments, preparing the canvas—artists like Velázquez operated within a system, a workshop. Curator: But what about the figures, the sitters themselves? Their presentation, their societal roles... are they not equally constructed? Editor: Definitely. The x-ray exposes the canvas, the very support structure. And we can ask, what supports the social structures, the powerful image? Curator: A fascinating perspective to consider. Editor: Yes, layers upon layers to consider for such a famous image.