How are miniature portraits made?

Miniature portraits are made with a mix of powdered glass, metal oxides and oil which makes a paste. This paste is painted color by color onto a base. Each color layer is fired in a kiln, one at a time. You’ll find a variety of miniature portraits from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

What were miniature portraits painted on?

Miniature portraits were first painted on a variety of mediums, some of the more popular being vellum, and card or cardboard. Paintings would typically be done in watercolor. Later painting in enamel on metal became a classic medium for painting miniature portraits. On 1stDibs, find an array of authentic miniature portraits.

Miniature Portrait Paste

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Antique Georgian 18th Century French Enamel Miniature Portrait Paste Pendant

Located in Vilnius, Vilniaus apskr.

This miniature portrait pendant is an exceptional and collectable piece of jewelry dating from the

Antique Late 18th Century French Georgian Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Crystal, Base Metal, Enamel

Antique Georgian 18th Century French Enamel Miniature Portrait Paste Pendant

W 1.5 in L 2.37 in

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Questions About Miniature Portrait Paste

How are miniature portraits made?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Miniature portraits are made with a mix of powdered glass, metal oxides and oil which makes a paste. This paste is painted color by color onto a base. Each color layer is fired in a kiln, one at a time. You’ll find a variety of miniature portraits from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
What were miniature portraits painted on?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Miniature portraits were first painted on a variety of mediums, some of the more popular being vellum, and card or cardboard. Paintings would typically be done in watercolor. Later painting in enamel on metal became a classic medium for painting miniature portraits. On 1stDibs, find an array of authentic miniature portraits.