Frits Lugt was of the opinion that miniatures are defined by their size as well as their function and include ‘small paintings that can be held comfortably in the palm of the hand, and can be easily worn or carried as accessories’. Presented as jewellery, on boxes or mounted on personal possessions, portrait miniatures were often made for someone close to the model. The delicate appearance of these objects, their exceptionally intimate if not sentimental nature invite the spectator to silent contemplation.