The paper discusses conservation and research issues regarding easel painting on wood. Properties of wooden supports are referenced in terms of timber type and processing; methods of historical support preparation by artists and support protection by renovators have been deliberated as well. The paper further highlights the most common risks – factors conducive to timber deterioration: prior to preparation for painting purposes, and developing in situ and during exhibition of finished works. Selected case studies showcase the structure of given artworks on wooden supports in terms of techniques and technologies applied by artists, as well as conservation activity methodologies chosen to match individual artefacts with intent to remove damage and improve aesthetic reception, in consideration of conservatorship guidelines concerning potential display