A typical support for encaustic painting is which material?

• A. Wood
• B. Canvas
• C. Paper
• D. Metal foil

Answer: (A)

Encaustic painting uses hot wax that is applied in layers, so a rigid, stable base is essential. Wood panels provide that stability—they don’t flex and warp as easily as other materials when exposed to heat or changes in humidity. A smooth, prepared wooden surface also takes the wax well, helping the layers adhere and stay even over time. Because of this durability and historical use in ancient works, wood is the typical support for encaustic painting.

Canvas can move or distort under heat, paper can buckle or deteriorate with the wax and heat, and metal foil doesn’t offer the same reliable bonding and stability for layered wax.