Encaustic Painting
About
Encaustic painting, one of the oldest known art forms, dates back to ancient Greece and Egypt. The technique involves mixing pigments with hot wax, which is then applied to a surface, often wood. The word "encaustic" comes from the Greek "enkaustikos," meaning "to burn in," reflecting the heat required to fuse the layers of wax.
One of the remarkable features of encaustic paintings is their incredible longevity. Many encaustic works from antiquity, such as the famous Fayum mummy portraits, have survived for thousands of years, retaining their vivid colors and intricate details. This durability, combined with the rich, luminous quality of the wax, makes encaustic painting a timeless and enduring medium.
Care Instructions
To ensure its longevity and beauty, please follow these care instructions:
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause the wax to melt or fade over time. Display your painting in a space with indirect light.
Temperature Control: Keep the painting in a stable environment with temperatures approximately between 40°F and 110°F. Extreme heat or cold can cause the wax to crack or soften.
Dusting: Dust the surface gently using a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using water, cleaning solutions, or abrasive materials, as these can damage the wax surface.
Avoid Moisture: Keep the painting away from humid environments like bathrooms, as moisture can affect the wax.
No Glass Framing: Do not put the painting in a glass frame. This can cause a greenhouse effect, trapping heat and softening the wax, potentially damaging the artwork.
Wax Blooming: Within the first 1-3 years, your painting may develop a cloudy look known as "wax blooming." This is a natural part of the wax hardening process. To restore the shine, gently buff the surface with a soft microfiber cloth.