December 13, 2003

The art and beauty of light The history of stained glass stretches back some 1,700 years, but didn't come into the form we're familiar with until the 5th century AD, reaching a spectacular pinnacle in the Renaissance with amazing religious designs.

In the early 20th century, one man's designs became synonymous with the Art Nouveau style of stained glass. Loius Comfort Tiffany's works included dazzling and evocative religious pieces as well fantastical reworkings of everyday things. Since then, a variety of artisians have expressed their vision in this amazing form.

  • Awesome post! The history is really fascinating. I was lucky enough to go to Milan and Zurich last year and the windows in the Duomo are amazing. I also saw some painted glass windows in Zurich - a whole different take on it, and equally beautiful.
  • Oh, wonderful stained glass! Thank you boo_radley, you are a bonvivant!
  • For those who are interested, the first link has been moved to this spot. I had a music teacher whose son was a professional stanined glass artisan. I thought it must be a wonderful occupation to have. It's one of those arts that I hope never goes away.