Design for a Rose Window

Designer Attributed to Frederick Wilson American, born Ireland

ca. 1902–22

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 692

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.

Artwork Details

Object Information

Overview

Title: Design for a Rose Window
Artist: Louis C. Tiffany (American, New York 1848–1933 New York)
Designer: Attributed to Frederick Wilson (American (born Ireland), Dublin 1858–1932 Los Angeles, California)
Maker: Tiffany Studios (1902–32)
Date: ca. 1902–22
Geography: Made in New York, United States; Country of Origin United States
Culture: American
Medium: Transparent and opaque watercolor, and graphite on collage of paper mounted on paperboard
Dimensions: 28 × 22 in. (71.1 × 55.9 cm)
Credit Line: Purchase, Walter Hoving and Julia T. Weld Gifts and Dodge Fund, 1967
Object Number: 67.654.105
Curatorial Department: The American Wing

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