When is a Painting a Miniature, Not Just Small?

A miniature is a very small painting that's extremely detailed. But just how small does it need to be to be classified as a miniature? According to the World Federation of Miniaturists, it all depends on which country you live, but as a general rule a miniature is no more than one sixth the actual size of the subject. "An adult head measures from the forehead to the chin about 9 inches. One-sixth of the actual size of the head is 1 to 1.5 inches." That's tiny! Read more about what qualifies as a miniature and the techniques and materials used in miniatures.

Miniature Art Societies
• World Federation of Miniaturists
• USA: Miniature Art Society of Florida
• UK: Hilliard Society of Miniaturists
• UK: Royal Society of Miniature Painters Sculptors and Gravers