X-radiograph(s) of "Samson and Dalilah" Possibly 27 - 46

Editor: Here we have an X-radiograph of "Samson and Dalilah," attributed to Domenico Tintoretto, located at the Harvard Art Museums. The film itself measures 14 x 17. I find it fascinating how this image reveals the hidden layers and structure of the painting. What do you see in this piece beyond the obvious cracks? Curator: The beauty lies in the formal composition. Notice how the density of the radiographic image varies, creating a visual rhythm independent of the subject matter. The cracks, or craquelure, form a network, a secondary composition, disrupting and enhancing the original structure. Do you perceive how the abstract pattern complicates our understanding of the image? Editor: Absolutely. It’s like a map of the painting's history and the materials used. It makes me think about the passage of time and the unseen aspects of art. Thanks for pointing that out! Curator: Indeed, it highlights the dynamic interplay between surface and depth, challenging our perception of artistic creation.