Portrait Miniature

A portrait miniature is a small, detailed painting of a person, usually created on materials like ivory, wood, or bone. These artworks emerged in Europe during the late Renaissance and became popular through the 18th and early 19th centuries. They were often used as personal keepsakes or gifts, allowing people to carry or display likenesses of loved ones. Typically measuring around two to six inches in size, these miniatures showcased the artist's skill in capturing facial features and expressions with remarkable precision, often serving as sentimental mementos in a time before photography.