The University of Kansas

Albrecht Dürer

Germany, 1471-1528
The triumphal Car of Emperor Maximilian, first two of eight panels, 1523
woodcut
2.32 m. overall length
Museum purchase, 59.24

Because of their fragility, works on paper require particular care. Maintaining proper light, humidity, and temperature levels in storage and in the galleries is important for the works on paper. Humidity is kept low to prevent molds forming on the works. In addition, the acidity of many modern papers is destructive. To protect works of art on paper, it is necessary to mount them on special acid-free mat board.

When not on view, the works on paper are stored in light-tight boxes called solander boxes. Since all light damages paper, light levels are kept as low as possible in the galleries where works on paper are displayed. In the print study room the light levels are higher for scholars and students to see the works, which are out of their boxes for only a short time.

Proper handling of works on paper is critical. Because the oil on fingertips is destructive, museum staff avoid touching prints by handling their protective mats. Even so, viewers and staff must wash their hands before looking at and handling prints, drawings, or photographs.