Design for a Multi-paned Stained-glass Window, Church of the Divine Paternity, New York 1893 - 1903

This is a design for a multi-paned stained-glass window for the Church of the Divine Paternity in New York, made by Clayton and Bell. Here, watercolor and graphite have been applied to paper to guide the meticulous assembly of colored glass pieces, held together by lead strips. Each section is a mosaic of hand-cut glass fragments. The inherent qualities of glass – its luminosity and color saturation – are amplified by light passing through it, creating a dazzling visual effect. The design process involves skilled craftsmanship, bridging the gap between art and industry. Highly specialized knowledge is needed to cut, paint, and assemble the glass, alongside the labor required to build the window within the architectural structure. This process reflects the social context of the late 19th century, when elaborate church decoration served as a symbol of wealth, enabled by industrial capitalism. Paying attention to the materials, making, and context of this stained-glass window design, we gain a deeper appreciation for the blend of fine art, craft, and social meaning embedded within it.