Geschilderd raam in de Dorpskerk te Oostvoorne 1907

This is a photograph of a stained glass window in the village church of Oostvoorne. Though the maker is unknown, it represents not just artistry but also a traditional craft that bridges design and materiality. Think of the process involved: from selecting specific colors of glass to cutting it precisely, arranging the pieces according to a design, and then leading them together to create a cohesive image. The leadlines aren't just functional; they define the aesthetic, creating a graphic quality. The window would have required a team of skilled artisans working in concert, with the division of labor reflecting the guild system prevalent at the time of production. Understanding this social context gives us a deeper appreciation of the window, it exemplifies a blend of craft and design tied inextricably to social issues of labor and collective production.