X-radiograph(s) of "Pope Julius II (Copy)" 

Editor: This is an X-radiograph of a copy of Raphael's "Pope Julius II," a large film showing a grid pattern. What I find fascinating is how this process reveals the hidden layers of the artwork’s creation. What can you tell me about it? Curator: Indeed. Look at how the radiographic process unveils the materiality—the wood panel construction, the lead white in the paint. We can see the labor involved, the hands that prepared the support, applied the gesso, and laid down the pigments. It challenges our notion of Raphael as solely an artistic genius. Editor: So, it's about understanding the physical making of the painting rather than just its artistic merit? Curator: Precisely. The consumption of art often overlooks these crucial material processes. This radiograph prompts us to consider the collaborative nature of art production and the often-unseen contributions of artisans. Editor: That really gives a whole new appreciation for the work and what went into it. Curator: Agreed, seeing art this way expands our understanding beyond just aesthetics and authorship.