When first created stained glass was primarily used to decorate the magnificent windows in cathedrals, churches, palaces and famous building. Great artists through centuries created larger than life murals in windows depicting religious, historical and mythical scenes. Originally done in flat panel relief modern exponents of this art form are now creating three dimensional structures and pieces of sculpture. These windows are also known as illuminated wall decorations.

Ancient civilizations including the Egyptians and Romans made colored glass. Churches and monasteries in Great Britain dating back as far as the 7th century are decorated with these beautiful patterned windows.

At one time this art form was only practiced by great artists and their apprentices. For centuries only these select few worked in this form but during the last century it experienced a revival and numerous glass-artists took up the art. Primarily the rival happened due to huge amount of restoration that was required to repair and maintain century old windows in historic buildings that were destroyed and damaged during the Second World War.

Color is given by the addition of metallic salts. Cobalt is added to glass to make it blue, copper oxide produces green and copper makes red. Colored glass is cut into small pieces and used to build up a picture or pattern. Pieces are held together with strips of lead and a rigid outer frame. In this way the panels are put together before being placed into window frames or door panels.

Nowadays copper foil is sometimes used instead of lead strips. Once the entire picture or object is completed the copper foil or lead strips and heated with a soldering iron to set into the glass and give an overall smooth appearance.

Many contemporary exponents of this craft use innovative techniques to created pictures of paintings of famous artists. One form which is popular is known as the Gemmail method. This technique allows for adjacent pieces to overlap and not be connected with foil or lead. It creates greater diversity and allows the artist to play with shading of color.

With new materials, additives and methods colors, texture and patterns in this material being made are absolutely stunning. Nowadays the term is used when referring to lamp shades and other forms of mixed glass art pieces. The use of this art form in homes has increased dramatically with entrance door panel inserts and special windows added to conservatories or other rooms in the home.

This growing demand has created a new generation of artists working in this medium. One need only browse through the internet to see how many traditional and contemporary designs are on offer. Whether used as a window or door panel, a screen, in a light box or a piece of sculpture it will add a touch of charm and elegance to any room and value to the home.

There are organizations that oversee the stained glass industry and its many related affiliations. Their main purpose is to ensure the survival of the craft.

Established in 1998, we specialize in providing the best Quality Wrought Iron Toronto and Door Inserts Toronto door inserts for all projects big and small.

Established in 1998, we specialize in providing the best in stained glass and wrought iron door inserts for all projects big and small.
http://www.whatapane.ca/

Author Bio: Established in 1998, we specialize in providing the best Quality Wrought Iron Toronto and Door Inserts Toronto door inserts for all projects big and small.

Category: Home Management
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