When we peer beneath the surface of art and artifacts using modern technology, are we opening doors that were meant to stay closed? Consider Van Gogh's hidden self-portrait, discovered through X-ray beneath another painting — a revelation that raises thorny questions about artistic privacy beyond the grave. While technologies like X-ray imaging and LIDAR unveil precious historical secrets, they also challenge our respect for the past's intended boundaries. When an artist deliberately conceals their work, or ancient cultures carefully seal their burial grounds, perhaps we should question whether our technological ability to uncover these secrets gives us the right to do so.