X-radiograph(s) of "Virgin and Child" 

Editor: Here we have an X-radiograph of "Virgin and Child" by Apollonio di Giovanni di Tommaso. It's fascinating to see the painting's structure beneath the surface. What does this reveal about the artwork beyond its visual appearance? Curator: It shows us not just the artist’s hand, but also the hand of history. X-rays like this are tools of institutional power, allowing museums to authenticate and study artworks, influencing their value and perceived importance. Editor: So, it’s about more than just seeing under the paint? Curator: Exactly. The very act of X-raying, analyzing, and archiving contributes to how we understand and value this piece within a broader cultural and economic framework. What do you make of the grid obscuring the image? Editor: It is like a window through which we are scrutinizing the artwork... that makes sense! I never thought about how museums use science to shape art history. Curator: It's a reminder that art viewing is never neutral. The institutional gaze plays a crucial role in shaping our understanding.