Encaustic painting, also known as
hot wax painting, involves using heated
beeswax to which colored
pigments are added. The liquid or paste is then applied to a surface—usually prepared wood, though
canvas and other materials are often used. The simplest encaustic mixture can be made from adding pigments to beeswax, but there are several other recipes that can be used—some containing other types of
waxes,
damar resin,
linseed oil, or other ingredients. Pure, powdered pigments can be used, though some mixtures use oil paints or other forms of pigment.