For centuries the beauty of stained glass has captured our attention and been a source of meditation and inspiration. The Nativity Window at St. Michael's Catholic Church in downtown Findlay, Ohio is a unique window that brings us back through the ages starting at Medieval Europe, and traveling to 19th century Germany before returning to modern-day Ohio.
Stained glass window art had its beginning in medieval Europe, most notably England and France. According to the Catholic Encyclopedia, medieval stained glass went far beyond the pretty design. Its ultimate purpose was to give glory to God while instilling inspiration and knowledge in the faithful, especially those unable to read. In modern America, St. Michael's Nativity Window represents this culture that although differs in many ways, nevertheless stirs that inner desire to experience art and architecture that fills our senses with the divine. Symbolically located on the eastern side of St. Michael's Church, The Nativity Window promotes reverence and meditation by representing the Rosary's third Joyful Mystery in a series of windows designed after this beloved devotion.
St. Michael's Nativity Window does not stop at medieval religious inspiration though. The technique used to create this window stems from another era. 18th and 19th century artists, in an effort to recapture the meaning behind the medieval glasswork, combined traditional themes with a different technique in Munich, Germany.
The Nativity Window, installed in 1889 and created by the Royal Bavarian Stained Glass Manufactory, resulted from this historical style. F. X. Zettler, head of the Royal Manufactory, accompanied by competitor Franz Mayer of the Royal Institute of Art, is credited with developing this famous "Munich Style." In the traditional "Munich Style" the artist created the stunning Nativity Window by painting the image on a large piece of glass and fusing the colors with the glass through firing with intense heat. This technique allows for intricate details, inspiring facial expressions, and a beautiful blending of colors unlike the medieval mosaic style.
The beauty of this 19th century window can now be spread to local homes thanks to Glassmasters, a Virginia-based company of talented glass craftsmen.
Inspired by the Nativity Window at St. Michael's, Glassmasters created a 5" x 7" oval reproduction.
The artists at Glassmasters expertly and meticulously recreate the Nativity Window using a technique almost identical to the original process. After drawing an exact image of the design, artists choose from a color scheme consisting of over one thousand choices before carefully applying the enamel. The window must go through many inspections and color applications before the piece is fired at 1,100 degrees Fahrenheit. Just like the original, this firing permanently fuses the enamel with the glass meaning the replicas will be a lasting work of art that never fades. Those interested in ordering this special reproduction can order online through Ave Maria Inc. at www.realcatholic.com or by calling 800-352-5850.
Article written by Sarah M. Jennings - Ave Maria, Inc.
References:
"Stained Glass, An Ancient Art." Our Craft. 1999. http://www.glassmasters.com/craftn.htm. (12/05/03).
"Nativity Window." Press Release: Legendary Stained Glass. http://glassmasters.com/illuminate-spirit.html#father.(12/5/03).
Coleman, Caryl. "Stained Glass." The Catholic Encyclopedia, Vol. XIV. 2003. http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/14241a.htm. (12/5/03).
