X-radiograph(s) of "Assumption of the Virgin" 

Editor: This is an X-radiograph of "Assumption of the Virgin" by Bartolo di Fredi. The film is 14 x 17. It's eerie, seeing the layers beneath the painting. What can we learn by analyzing this underlying structure? Curator: Note how the X-radiograph reveals distinct compositional elements. The varying densities suggest different materials and techniques employed. How do these material choices contribute to the overall form? Editor: So the artist's choices of materials and their arrangement create the visual impact? Curator: Precisely. The structure dictates the surface, and the surface informs our perception. Considering the formal elements is key to understanding the piece. Editor: I see how analyzing the composition and materials offers a new way to appreciate the artwork. Curator: Indeed, it's a formal study offering a look at the essence of the work.