First, that encaustic colours, having resisted the injuries of the
weather better than oil-colours, for the space of twenty-seven months,
they will prove more lasting than oil-colours for a greater space of
time.
Secondly, that having resisted the effects of the corrosives, _alkali_
and _aqua fortis_, &c. the circumambient air, howsoever impregnated
with saline particles, cannot affect them.
Thirdly, that if pictures of this kind receive any hurt, fire will
restore them.
The most celebrated men of antiquity, celebrated the performances of
their painters; if their colours had not been as lasting as their skill
was great, some one might have left us regretful instances. They left
us none.
Was WAX the preserver of their colours?