A non-destructive imaging method using X-rays to reveal internal structure, joins, repairs, armatures, casting features, and hidden conditions within sculpture.
X-radiography uses X-rays to examine internal structure without dismantling the object. In sculpture conservation it can reveal hidden joins, wall thickness, repairs, fasteners, cores, armatures, casting flaws, and changes made during manufacture or restoration.
Etymology
X-ray + radiography, from Greek graphein, “to write or record.”
Sculptor Notes
Radiography is especially valuable in bronze and assembled sculpture because what appears seamless from the exterior may contain multiple cast sections, screws, patches, cores, or later repairs.
References
https://www.getty.edu/projects/radiography-in-the-round/; https://www.getty.edu/publications/bronze-guidelines/vol-2/3/