The Portrait Miniature in England

by KatherineCoombs (Author)

• Used

  Paperback
  1998

  $3.28

  A fascinating account of the development of English miniature painting featuring masterpieces from the V&A's collection, which contains some of the finest examples in existence. A unique art form with its own demanding techniques, highly skilled painters and intriguing social history, the portrait miniature flourished in Britain for nearly 400 years. This highly readable yet authoritative account examines in detail how these delicate works of art were created. The book also looks into the world of the miniaturists themselves, tracing close family ties and the passing on of traditions and techniques, as well as tackling issues surrounding the place of the miniature in contemporary perceptions of art history.

• Used

  Hardcover
  1998

  $4.23

  This account of the development of English miniature painting features masterpieces from the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection. The portrait miniature is a unique art form with its own techniques, painters and history. One of its greatest exponents, Nicholas Hilliard, called it a thing apart from other painting , and within the history of Western art it stands as a particularly English contribution with a flourishing life for nearly 400 years. Miniatures were painted to be viewed and held closely, to be given away as tokens of loyalty and love. The book offers insights into the society which allowed the art of the miniaturist to flourish and develop, and takes a fresh look at these delicate works, revealing aspects usually hidden from view and details which show the techniques used by artists to achieve their effects.