One of the pieces I would really like to add to my collection is a Georgian eye miniature. These tiny portraits, literally of an eye, were made so that lovers could discreetly have a memento of their beloved that would resonate only with them. It makes sense that they were often tokens of affection given by illicit lovers who could not reveal their relationships.

They were painted by artists who specialized in miniature portraits, often on ivory, but also on bone or porcelain. They are incredibly rare and as a result, they generally do not sell for below $3,000 or thereabouts.

Collector Cathy Gordon has an absolutely outstanding collection of eye miniatures if you would like to see more (literal) eye candy…

http://imageevent.com/bluboi/eyes

There is a wonderful and informative article on eye miniatures on the UK Antiques Roadshow site, which is where the photos below are from: http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/roadshow/tips/loverseyes.html

As the article notes, given the value, these are heavily faked now. So if you are interested in purchasing, be sure you are buying from a reputable seller with a good return policy in the event the piece turns out to be a reproduction.