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denver stained glass through time

Stained Glass Through Time: Ancient, Modern, and Future Works

Stained glass has nearly a thousand year long history as a form of art. In early times, it was colored glass was used for pottery and jewelry. Today, stained glass windows are common for Denver area homes and churches, especially for luxury properties and historic buildings. Throughout the course of time, the practice of glassmaking has undergone many changes and as result, works have become more advanced and ornate. As technology advances, it’s quite likely that stained glass will continue to evolve and play an important role in architecture throughout the world.

The Origins of Stained Glass in Churches, Synagogues, and Temples

The term “stained glass” can be used to refer to two things, one being stained glass in itself as a material, the other being windows comprised of pieces of stained glass. The original use of stained glass as a material dates back to Ancient Egyptian and Roman times, when colored glass was used to create small objects. However, stained glass gained most of its popularity when it began being incorporated into religious architecture.

The use of stained glass windows in early Christian churches dates back to the 4th and 5th century and continued to grow in popularity thereafter in Europe and Southwest Asia. During the Middle Ages, stained glass windows evolved greatly as a form of art when they were found to be useful in a church setting for relaying Biblical stories to the illiterate. Soon after, during the Gothic period, some of the grandest masterpieces were created. These include the Chartres Cathedral, Canterbury Cathedral, Sainte Chapelle, and many more.

The Use of Stained Glass Today and in the Future

Today, stained glass is still used in religious architecture, but it has also taken on a new role in residential and commercial settings. This movement was particularly popular during the Victorian era, but has continued on throughout modern architectural styles and movements. In many luxury homes, stained glass is used for creating privacy in kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways, and also as a decorative element for various places. Hotels, restaurants, and high end commercial properties are also places where modern examples of stained glass such as hanging lights and signs can be found.

bathroom stained glass window denver

As for the future of stained glass, there is much yet to be seen. As technology continues to advance, so do the methods for glass making. Stained glass windows are being built better than ever before, giving them the ability to last longer. Thanks to CAD programming, measurements are more precise and more intricate and creative designs can be produced. Stained glass sculptures are also becoming increasingly popular and are expected to continue to grow in their abundance. As with all things, stained glass has evolved, but its roots and traditions will forever remain the same.

Continue the Tradition

Be a part of the movement to continue the tradition of stained glass. Call Scottish Stained Glass today to receive an estimate on stained glass for your Denver area home, commercial property, or church. We proudly serve the entire Denver metro area, all the way from Thornton to Centennial. Call now to get started on a design.