Artwork

Chapel Window

Chapel Window, by John La Farge, 1878
Chapel Window, by John La Farge, 1878

Chapel Window is a drawing by the Romanticist artist John La Farge. It dates from 1878 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Chapel Window is a drawing created by John La Farge in 1878, exemplifying his early expertise in stained glass design, a medium where he would become a leading figure.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a narrative stained glass window design, divided into sections with colorful, faded scenes of figures in robes, buildings, animals, and city skylines, suggesting a religious or historical storyline.

Technique & Style

La Farge's innovative approach is evident in the layered glass technique (for which he held a patent) and the harmonious blend of vibrant colors (notably blues, reds, and greens) against a yellowed background, reflecting his fusion of artistic vision and technical skill.

History & Provenance

Created in 1878, the same year La Farge received a major commission for Trinity Church in Boston, this work marks an early milestone in his career as a pioneering stained glass artist for churches.

Context

Chapel Window sits at the intersection of La Farge's artistic and religious explorations, blending faith with innovative design principles, characteristic of his unique contribution to the field.

Legacy

As an early example of La Farge's stained glass designs, Chapel Window contributes to his legacy as a pioneer in the medium, known for advancing color and technique in religious and architectural contexts.

Artist & collection

Portrait of John La Farge

Artist

John La Farge

John La Farge (March 31, 1835 – November 14, 1910) was an American artist whose career spanned illustration, murals, interior design, painting, and popular books on his Asian travels and other art-related topics.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.