The Deluge 1531

This stained-glass panel, depicting the biblical flood, was made by Valentin Bousch in the first half of the 16th century. Glass is such a fascinating material. Fusing silica sand with soda ash and lime at high temperatures creates a molten substance that can be shaped in countless ways. Here, Bousch has used colored glass and lead strips to construct the scene. The leadwork is not just functional, holding the glass pieces together, but also contributes to the overall design, defining outlines and adding a sense of structure. The process of creating stained glass is labor-intensive, requiring skilled artisans to cut, paint, and assemble the pieces. Consider the communal aspect of such a workshop, where specialized skills are passed down through generations. In a world increasingly dominated by mass production, it’s worth pausing to appreciate the slow, deliberate craftsmanship involved in this remarkable panel. It prompts us to reflect on the value we place on traditional skills in our contemporary society.