Design for a rose window

Louis C. Tiffany American
 Attirbuted to Frederick Wilson American, born Ireland
 Tiffany Studios

Not on view

This elaborate design for a rose window illustrates the mastery and sophistication of the Tiffany Studios designers. The west rose window at the cathedral in Chartres, France, may be the source for the imagery and tracery. In stark contrast to the window at Chartres, however, is the use of color. While medieval stained-glass windows incorporate bright primary colors, this Tiffany window is distinguished by subtle, shaded, ethereal hues. The delicately painted, partially hidden faces of the angels are a reference to the elegance and classicism of the pre-Raphaelite movement. Symbols of the Evangelists appear in the outer roundels; the angel is associated with Matthew, the Lion with Mark, the ox with Luke, and the eagle with John. Lightning bolts symbolize the presence of God. In the inner roundels, seraphim, symbols of divine love, surround Christ, who, partially obscured by divine light, holds a scepter.

Design for a rose window, Louis C. Tiffany (American, New York 1848–1933 New York), Watercolor, gouache, and graphite on cut white wove paper trimmed into shapes, American

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Design for a rose window, Louis C. Tiffany (American, New York 1848–1933 New York), Watercolor, gouache, and graphite on cut white wove paper trimmed into shapes, American
Design for a rose window, Louis C. Tiffany (American, New York 1848–1933 New York), Watercolor, gouache, and graphite on cut white wove paper trimmed into shapes, American
Design for a rose window, Louis C. Tiffany (American, New York 1848–1933 New York), Watercolor, gouache, and graphite on cut white wove paper trimmed into shapes, American

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