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These clay tablets from Ur, ancient Mesopotamia and Senkereh (present-day Iraq) are the first examples of miniature books, dated between 2200-2325 B.C.E.

16th century "Book of Hours" illuminated manuscript, showing skulls.

Late sixteenth century manuscript book by Esther Inglis (1571-1624), known perhaps as the foremost calligrapher of her time.

Miniature books by Joan Miró and Jacqueline Roque and Pablo Picasso, commissioned by P.A.B., a Paris-based publisher.

(clockwise from top left) Various elaborate artistic bookbindings using materials such as silver thread, mother of pearl, tortoiseshell and silk. Second half of the 19th century.

5-year-old Allison Dehn's story about the eruption of Mount St. Helen's, which included an envelope of ashes. 1980.

Twelve-volume "Midget" library. 1900.

A book on Chinese papermaking, with beautiful woodcut engravings. 1980.

Various scans from Miniature books: 4,000 Years of Tiny Treasures. Published by Abrams (an imprint of Harry N. Abrams, Inc.) in 2007. The book accompanied an exhibition at the Grolier Club from May 15-July 28.

For more details (like page numbers, sizes (all on this page do not exceed 2"!) and exact caption text) visit my Flickr Photostream.