Stained Glass in the Middle Ages

What is the primary purpose of stained glass in churches during the Middle Ages?

What material is used to hold the pieces of stained glass together?

What are the small pieces of colored glass used in stained glass panels called?

What is the role of tracery in stained glass windows?

How were the designs for stained glass artworks initially created?

Stained Glass in the Middle Ages

Stained glass reached its peak in the Middle Ages.
It's decorative art using colored glass pieces to create designs.
Used for religious art (churches) and secular use (homes, buildings).
In churches, it illustrated Bible stories, educating the illiterate.

Technique of Stained Glass Creation

Similar to mosaics, small colored glass pieces (tesserae) are assembled.
Assembled using lead strips or copper foil.
Artists create "cartoons" (drawings) which serve as the design basis.
Cartoons are passed to workshops near cathedrals.
Workshop craftspeople implement artist's designs, constructing the panels.
Panels are joined by tracery, stone supports.
Tracery prevents glass from being damaged by wind.
Panels are soldered together for durability

Preservation Challenges

Few early stained glass examples remain today.
Windows are fragile; vulnerable to destruction (earthquakes, high winds, fires, bombing).
Some existing medieval pieces are reworked. (e.g., some Milan Cathedral windows).

Explore the rich history of stained glass art during the Middle Ages. This quiz covers the techniques used in creating stained glass, its significance in religious and secular contexts, and the challenges faced in its preservation. Test your knowledge on this fascinating subject!