Non-destructive investigation of a late panel painting by Lucas Cranach the Elder

Abstract This work presents the results of a complementary diagnostic investigation carried out on a late wooden panel painting attributed to world-famous Renaissance painter Lucas Cra-nach the Elder. The aim of this study was to characterize the pigments, ground layers and painting technique used in Cranach's painting Madonna and Child by means of an integrated non-destruc-tive approach that included Hyperspectral Imaging (HSI), portable X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Combined XRF and FTIR data allowed identi-fication of a vibrant color palette, with lead white, verdigris, smalt, vermilion, red earth, yellow ochre, and a zinc-rich brown earth among the used pigments. Hyperspectral imaging showed no underdrawings, but various technical features and past restoration interventions were possible to document. The findings provide valuable artistic and technical information regarding the painting materials and style used by this influential 16th-century master, as well as key information that can support the conservation strategy of this remarkable artwork.