Miniatures
Miniature books became particularly popular during the Middle Ages due to their portability and were often religious in nature. With the development of the printing press, miniatures were also a learning activity for printers to give their apprentices as a test of skills in typesetting, printing, and binding. They have historically been used essentially as travel or pocketbooks in addition to showcasing one's literary proficiency. Napoleon was noted to have a traveling library of 1000 books, with flexible covers and springback bindings for ease of use. The 19th century is known as the "Golden Age" for miniatures as printing technology advanced. Children's books were especially popular in addition to other content meant to be personal, portable, and easily disseminated. This included copies of one of the first birth control books (Fruits of Philosophy; or, the Private Companion of Young Married People, 1832) as well as the Emancipation Proclamation (1863).
Today, miniatures remain popular, sparking curiosity and wonder regardless of age.
These models were inspired by the University of Iowa Special Collections Smith Miniatures Collection.
Key Features of a Miniature Book (exceptions apply)
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Less than 3 inches in any dimension
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Micro-minis are 1/4-1 inch in any dimension