X-radiograph(s) of "Holy Family" 

Curator: This is an X-radiograph of a painting called "Holy Family," attributed to Polidoro da Lanciano, and part of the collection at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It's like seeing ghosts, layers and layers. I'm struck by how ghostly and ethereal it feels. A hidden anatomy of the artwork itself. Curator: Absolutely, the X-ray reveals details invisible to the naked eye, underdrawings, pentimenti. It’s like looking at the history of the painting's creation. Editor: It’s also a reminder of the artist's hand, their process. Stripped away of color, you see pure form and intent. It makes me think about art restoration. Curator: Yes, this sort of imaging helps inform conservation efforts, revealing the painting's structure and condition. It has great value in the art world. Editor: It certainly offers a totally new way to engage with a classic subject. Curator: Indeed. It's a privilege to see an artwork in this way, through the layers of time and materiality.