The Raising of the Cross 1593

This stained-glass panel of the Raising of the Cross was made by Franz Fallenter, probably in the early 1600s. He used pieces of colored glass held together with strips of lead. The process of making stained glass is pretty interesting. A glassblower first makes sheets of glass. Then the artist cuts them into the shapes they want, painting details on with a special black paint called "enamel." Finally, the pieces are assembled with lead strips, and soldered together. The lead that holds it together isn't just functional, it defines the whole image. The glass painter is in effect a construction worker, and the finished window is a testament to their labor. This panel isn't just a depiction of a sacred moment. It's a reminder of the craftsmanship, and the human effort required to bring light and color into our lives. It challenges us to think about the relationship between art, skill, and the value of work.