What is encaustic? How are these paintings made?
Encaustic is painting with melted beeswax; there is no canvas or gesso and there are minimal acrylic materials involved. The beeswax is melted, pigment is mixed in and this mixture is fused to a wood panel with heat. 

Will it melt?
No. Beeswax melts at 160 degrees F. Encaustic paintings should never be hung in direct sunlight or left in a very hot car; this is common sense for storing and hanging any fine art piece. Always hang on a hook to prevent falling and chipping or breaking.

Will it last?
Definitely! There are encaustic paintings created by the ancient Romans still around. Chipping on the edges is a risk, see below.

How do you clean it and take care of it?
Dust can be wiped off with a soft cloth. The edges of the encaustic paintings can be fragile, be sure to wrap with tissue paper first then bubble wrap and a rigid box when transporting. Always hang on a hook to prevent falling and breaking.