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.