You can find various miniature paintings that have different technique, size and the proportions of the depicted subject to the actual object portrayed. Miniature art came from the Western world with the illumination of manuscripts. These tiny paintings contained portraits of angels and saints and also the scenes from daily life in the Middle Ages.

When the printing press was invented the manuscript artists started painting miniature portraits and other small works of art on demand of private patrons and royalty. They carried these works in a bag or pocket like nowadays we carry photographs of the loved ones days.

The art of miniature technique requires a level of detail and needs a close observation. These paintings can be made using various painting materials and surfaces. But there are the main principles of composition and color variations for creating a miniature.

There are different sizes of miniatures. The professional standard of miniatures together with the frame is 5x7’’or less. However you can choose larger works of up to 11x14". Some experts discard the idea of size altogether and take into account exceptionally the "miniaturization" factor. This means that as long as the objects depicted are smaller than actual life-size, the painting can have a size of a mural.

The popularity of miniatures gained due to many reasons. Their smaller size is suitable for wall display in apartments and small office spaces. Also for decorating larger offices the groupings of miniatures can be used as an alternative to single full-sized images. Almost every person can afford to buy miniatures than larger painting. Miniatures can be a great choice if you appreciate the uniqueness of original art and they won’t also cost too much.

Table top display can be also a great place for the small pieces of original art such as miniatures. They can be used for decorating shelves, fireplace mantles, coffee tables and the like. Miniatures are wonderful decorative items for your home and can be also a perfect gift for your friends, family, employees, co-workers, business clients and new homeowners!