Stained glass art transformed from its religious origins in cathedrals to becoming celebrated contemporary art. By merging craftsmanship with modern sensibilities, artists continue captivating audiences.
Historical Evolution of Stained Glass
The heyday of stained glass took place between the 12th and 17th centuries. Abbot Suger, lived in the 12th century, reveled in blue colors representing divine gloom, considered father of stained glass windows. Stained glass was used in secular Renaissance buildings. Historic scenes placed in town halls, small panels in homes.
During 1100s–1500s stained glass foremost painting techniques. Etching and engraving featured intricate etched or engraved designs on glass. Stained glass rich in symbolism, visual stories.
Creating needs skill and appreciation of craft. Glaziers meticulously cut, shape, assemble colored glass into designs. Panes joined using lead or foil and soldered. Stained demands technical skills. Often used in churches, now for variety of purposes.
Presence of Christ represented in streaming light. Renaissance impoverished stained glass. In 12th and 13th centuries primary colors used, hand blown panes thick and uneven, light danced through panes.
Is stained glass Renaissance art?
Preservation and Care of Stained Glass
Glass panels store in clean, dry, well-ventilated area, away from sunlight, heat. Alkaline solutions like cement, lime never contact glass.
In 19th century, glass artists La Farge, Tiffany created opalescent stained glass.