History

Encaustic is an ancient technique; the word is derived from Greek enkaustikos: enkaiein to burn in and kaiein to burn. The medium is

made of  beeswax, damar resin (hardner) and pigment it is applied to a rigid substrate most often wood, the layers are fused with

heat after application. The oldest surviving encaustic examples are the Fayum funeral portraits which were painted in the 1st and 2nd centuries A.D. by Greek painters in Egypt.

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Care of your Encaustic
Wax does not absorb moisture, is a natural adhesive and preservative, because of this it will not deteriorate, yellow or darken. Encaustic paintings do not have to be varnished or protected by glass.

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You may see "blooming" (a clouding of the wax) as it can take up to a year for the beeswax to cure. When the painting is at room temperature use a 100% lint free cotton cloth lightly to bring a sheen to the image, being careful of textured surfaces.

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Treat your encaustic painting in a similar manner to an oil painting. Do not hang in direct sunlight, above or too close to a fireplace or

heat source. While transporting your painting, do not leave it unattended in a sealed vehicle as extreme heat or cold can cause damage. 

Always protect the surface and edges of the encaustic painting when moving it. Although the work is completely dry, encaustic paintings can be scratched, gouged, or chipped if handled roughly. If you have any issues please contact me. I hope you enjoy your new artwork. 

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