The graphic works of Lucas Cranach the Elder, his sons, and the workshop have been made available online in the Cranach Digital Archive. With 88 of a total of 290 drawings, the University Library Erlangen-Nürnberg holds one of the largest collections.
In this research project, funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) and the Ernst von Siemens Kunststiftung, nearly 300 drawings and over 600 prints—in their various print states and editions—were scientifically examined and systematically cataloged for the first time between 2023 and 2026 using an interdisciplinary approach. Innovative technical examinations were conducted using light microscopy and other analytical methods.
The necessary imaging of the Erlangen collection was carried out in September 2024. High-resolution digital images and scans at various wavelengths were produced, including in the infrared spectrum, which makes it possible to answer complex questions. For example, this makes it possible to determine whether soot ink or iron gall ink was used for a particular drawing. In addition, a paper analysis was conducted, including watermark imaging and measurement of the grid width (ripple lines). Further analysis and evaluation of the research data are planned as part of a follow-up project.