What is Miniature Painting?

Miniature painting is a style of art that was formerly associated with the beautification of documents and manuscripts. This form of art never strived to create an accurate depiction of the painted subject, instead, artists aspired to capture the essence of their painted form, preferring to depict an idealised and perfected version of their chosen subject.

A common misconception is that all Miniatures are small. As opposed to size, the term ‘Miniature’ refers to a way of painting and later, the red-leaded pigment (minium) that became associated with the work. Whilst it was common to display art on walls in the Western world, it was the book arts that were greatly valued in the East. Royals, ambassadors and affluent families would gift high-ranking and important persons opulent books containing poetry, stories, facts and most importantly, intricately painted folios. Like the private, but immaculate courtyard gardens, Miniature paintings were intended to delight the owner and not the general public. Because of this association, and because many surviving manuscripts are those protected within books, we mistakenly understand Miniature paintings to be small works of art on paper. Large scale paintings on cloth and other surfaces, such as walls, also existed but little has survived today.

Miniature painting became a significant genre in Persian, Arabic and later, Ottoman art during the 13th century, peaking in the 15th and 16th centuries. However, it has existed long before and continues to be appreciated and enjoyed today. In the Indian tradition, the earliest surviving Miniatures are from the 10th century, however, 10,000-year-old cave works painted in a similar style are known to have existed. Typically, multiple artists, each a specialist in an individualised technique, such as portraiture, gilding and calligraphy will work together to create a single painting. Many subjects were immortalised within this art form. From scientific musings to humans, animals, mythical beasts, plants, astrology and even religious figures.

Due to meticulous detailing, a painting in Miniature style can take many months to complete. When embarking on your Miniature journey, treat the experience as a meditation and immerse yourself in the detailed and exciting world typically associated with this style.

We look forward to seeing what you make.

The Concourse of the Birds, a Folio from a Mantiq Al-Tair (Language of the Birds) ca. 1600 @metmuseum.