The destructive processes leading to the need for the lining of paintings on canvas supports are reviewed. The various lining adhesives described by Balló (1924), Dèon (1851), Orlandi (1763), Pernety (1757), Secco-Suardo (1894), and Venturi Papari (1931) are examined critically. The desiderata for a lining adhesive are said to be: (1) adherence and penetration, (2) flexibility, (3) sealing power, (4) ready solubility, (5) absence of any corrosive or putrefying tendencies, and (6) absence of color or stain. The results of experimental observations on painting fragments lined with various model lining adhesives are described. Among the adhesives evaluated are glue paste emulsion, polyvinyl acetate, polyvinyl acetate wax, paraffin wax, paraffin wax-gum elemi, pure beeswax and wax-resin. The wax and wax-resin adhesives are tentatively considered the most safe and effective.