X-radiograph(s) of "Thomas Goldthwait" 

Curator: Here we have an interesting piece from the Harvard Art Museums: an X-radiograph of the painting "Thomas Goldthwait," originally by Robert Feke. Editor: The inversion of light and shadow creates an eerie, almost ghostly presence. The subject's gaze feels quite intense despite the technical nature of the image. Curator: Indeed. This radiograph offers a glimpse beneath the surface, revealing the artist's process. We can ponder the historical context – the identity of Thomas Goldthwait, a man of his time. Editor: Note the textures revealed. The way the brushstrokes create density and volume, and the damage and repairs underneath the visible surface. It's a study in form through radiographic means. Curator: Absolutely, and understanding Goldthwait’s position within the social hierarchy of his time adds layers of meaning to this portrait, even in its radiographic form. It prompts questions about power, representation, and even the unseen realities of the sitter's life. Editor: Ultimately, the artwork becomes less about Goldthwait and more about visual language itself. This unusual view allows us to decode its elemental components. Curator: It certainly gives us a unique perspective, prompting reflection on the interplay between the sitter, the artist, and the scientific methods used to reveal hidden truths.