An accelerated test method for evaluating image stability of color photographic paper was described, and estimation of fading rate of color image was discussed. Yellow, magenta and cyan patches having densities of 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 respectively were prepared, and were storaged at 50°-80°C-75% R.H. in an incubator. The degree of fading refers to the time required for say 10% change in each color density. The lifetime of image was estimated approximately by the extrapolation from Arrhenius Plot for the time taken for dye image to fade by 10% at 13°C and 75% R.H.(yearly mean in Japan). From the experimental results, it was clarified that the temperature above 50°C was necessary for the accelerated dark fading test, and that the relation between logarithmic fading rate and inverse temperature (1/ K ) showed linearity up to 80°C (353 K). The lifetime of cyan dye image having 1.0 in the initial density was estimated as 10-20 years by Arrhenius Plot. In the fading test, the lifetime of cyan dye image was estimated more accurately than the others, because of large temperature-dependence and less affection by yellow stain. Although the ANSI Standard specifies 60°C (140°F) at 70% R.H. as testing condition, higher temperature than 70°C at 75% R.H. is preferable to obtain 10% fading within 1 or 2 weeks for cyan patches prepared with today's paper products.