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Stained glass has been in use in homes, palaces, and churches as far back in history as the first century A.D. But over the course of those many centuries stained glass windows have had several very prolific periods that defined the art form.

The first main era began during the Romanesque Period and extended well into the Gothic. Demand for churches was the reason behind the increased interest in the art form. Windows were small at first but were designed to let in as much light as possible. As the Gothic Period advanced more colors began being used and the religious scenes depicted became much more complex.

During the majority of the Gothic Period architecture flourished and cathedrals included very large window spaces. It was also during the Gothic era that white glass gave way to more elaborate designs that used more dark glass. Now the stained glass panels panel become not just a pretty picture but a narrative of a story and in some cases several panels were used to tell the complete tale.

The late Gothic Period saw more art glass panels going into private homes as the wealthy sought out the glass artisans to create something for unique for their homes. Some artists were commissioned more than others based on skill and the styles they specialized in. While some patrons sought out panels depicting religious themes others chose based on beauty of natural depictions. Following the Gothic Period stained glass not only fell out of favor but many pieces were actually destroyed. For several hundred years the techniques were forgotten and there was no wide spread production. In the mid 1880’s interest in Gothic architecture and art saw a resurgence in England. This interest came to the United States with several artists who experimented in glass. Eventually Louis Comfort Tiffany emerged as an innovative designer and skilled glass artesian.

Tiffany popularized a style of stained glass window that utilized opalescent glass. This glass was used by his studio to create not only his art glass panels but Tiffany lamps, chandeliers, and more. At the turn of the century items from the Tiffany Studio were in demand not only with the rich elite but the emerging middle class as well.

Stained glass once again had a decline after WWI with Tiffany holding the torch until his end. Though currently there is renewed interest with those who collect antiques as well as those who want the beauty and purchase replicas of the finest windows and lamps.

All-Things_Tiffany is the internet source for Tiffany floor lamps, Tiffany table lamps, stained glass panels, and other Tiffany style products.

[tags]stained glass panels, stained glass window panels, tiffany floor lamps, tiffany table lamps[/tags]