Who painted Design for Stained Glass?

Design for Stained Glass was painted by John La Farge in 1878.

Where can I see Design for Stained Glass?

Design for Stained Glass is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Design for Stained Glass?

Design for Stained Glass is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

Design for Stained Glass

John La Farge , 1878

Design for Stained Glass 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

Design for Stained Glass (1878) is a drawing by American artist John La Farge, showcasing his dual role as a designer and innovator in the stained glass medium.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a winged warrior in armor, standing over a fallen enemy, amidst a deep blue background with a golden glow. The imagery suggests a blend of martial and divine themes, characteristic of Romanticism's emphasis on emotion and symbolism.

Technique & Style

Executed with loose, expressive brushstrokes, the piece exhibits a sketchy quality typical of early stained glass designs. This approach contrasts with the precision often associated with the final stained glass product, highlighting the creative stage of La Farge's process.

History & Provenance

Created in 1878, the same year La Farge received a major commission for Trinity Church in Boston, this design reflects his burgeoning expertise in stained glass. His innovations in the field would soon lead to a patent in 1880 for his layered glass technique.

Context

This work aligns with the Romantic movement, evident in its dramatic, emotionally charged scene and the use of light (golden glow) to evoke mood. La Farge's experimentation with stained glass also situates the piece within the broader context of late 19th-century artistic and technical innovation.

Artist & collection

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.