Church Stained Glass
Although archeologists have
been able to discover stained glass artifacts that date far back in history no
one can argue with the fact that it was actually the European Churches during
the medieval times that popularized the stained glass. The Church stained glass
phenomenon was at its peak during the Victorian era.
One can find examples of
church stained glass in what remains standing of the church buildings of the
fourth and fifth century. Church windows feature ornate patterns of alabaster
set that is thinly sliced and set in wooden frames. This is what produced the
stained glass effect.
The use of colored glass was
also initiated in the Christian churches. This was quite different from the
Muslim architecture of the time which revolved around the use of different
kinds of stone. The church stained glass was specifically designed to serve a
very fundamental purpose. Although they appeared to be amazing works of art the
idea behind them was to instill a spirit of holiness amongst the people who
visit the church.
The brilliance of the light
that came in through the church windows created a unique ambiance as it is but
the real Christian touch was added by the illustration of biblical stories and
the times and lives of their saints on the stained glass. This was the classic
style of that time which was meant to serve a religious plus an aesthetic
purpose.
We find that with time the
cathedrals and church buildings started featuring taller windows with far more
elaborate designs. The use of color produced amazing visual effects and
eventually the church stained glass windows inspired people to put up similar
fittings in their homes.