Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
What are small portraits called?
1 Answer
Small portraits are called limnings. Popular in the 16th and 17th centuries, limnings would be created with watercolors on prepared card, vellum, ivory or copper. The portraits were a great way to keep your loved one close, even when separated by distance. You’ll find a variety of limnings from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
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Shop for Miniature Portrait Jewelry on 1stDibs
Early 19th Century Miniature Portrait of a Gentleman
Located in Brisbane City, QLD
Dating to the early part of the 19th century this miniature portrait is finely painted and retains what appears to be its original frame.
Category
Antique Early 19th Century British Georgian Models and Miniatures
Regency Period Oil on Copper Miniature Portrait
Located in Brisbane City, QLD
This rather charming miniature portrait dates to the early 19th century, during the reign of George III.
Category
Antique Early 19th Century British Regency Models and Miniatures
Materials
Copper
Vintage Yellow Gold Miniature Portrait Boy Brooch
Located in New York, NY
This vintage brooch features a charming miniature portrait of a young boy, set in yellow gold that tests between 14k and 22k.
Category
20th Century Brooches
Materials
14k Gold, 22k Gold, Yellow Gold
Antique Victorian Hand Painted Miniature Portrait Pendant Necklace
Located in New York, NY
Featuring a hand painted miniature portrait and surrounding enamel (minor loss is present, consistent with age).
Category
Antique 19th Century Victorian Pendant Necklaces
Victorian Enamel Yellow Gold Miniature Portrait Earrings circa 1875
Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
Extremely fine rendition of Victorian jewelry, with detailed miniature portraits of enamel in an ornate frame. The closer you look, the more details come to the surface- these are tr...
Category
Antique 1870s Drop Earrings
Materials
Yellow Gold, Enamel
Rare Antique Diamond Gem Set Miniature Portrait Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
Rare antique 14k gold bracelet, with three links featuring oval porcelain hand painted miniature portraits (some damage on the portraits is present, due to age and consistent with we...
Category
Antique 19th Century More Bracelets
Materials
Diamond
