Lectures
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Stained glass in the historical Low Countries
The history and significance of stained-glass in castles
Stained-glass windows and castles: is there a more romantic topic? In this lecture, you will be makinga journey along Belgian castles in search of the stained-glass windows of Burgundian dukes and 19th-century castle owners. This is a story about some remarkable castles, but above all about their inhabitants, their tastes, the prevailing fashion and their way of life. And, of course, you will learn something about the history of stained glass as well.
Modern glass art from Art Nouveau to the present
The export of stained glass in the 18th and 19th centuries
Why are medieval and Renaissance stained-glass windows so rare? They were destroyed en masse not only during the Iconoclasm. Also later, in the 18th and 19th centuries, many glass artefacts disappeared because of various religious, political and fashion-related developments. At one point, our stained-glass windows were even sold by the kilo! How exactly did this happen? Who were the buyers? And what did they do with this glass heritage? You will find out all of this during this lecture.
Types of clear window glass from the Middle Ages until now
Did you know that different production methods for window glass have existed right from the very beginning? Various types of glass not only had another appearance, they were deliberately chosen by customers. During this lecture, you will learn more about the different kinds of glass and how you can recognize them. We will also discuss the right and wrong choices when reglazing monuments.
Stained-glass windows and reverse glass paintings – a world of difference
Have you ever heard of reverse glass paintings? Do these resemble stained-glass windows? No, they only have in common that the depicted image is carried on glass. With stained-glass windows, transmitted light is essential, whereas reverse glass paintings, just like regular paintings, need incident light. The manufacturing techniques are therefore fundamentally different. Furthermore, the specific function of some reverse glass paintings, such as the depiction of ships, will also be discussed.
The conservation-restoration of stained glass through a transdisciplinary approach
For a long time, the conservation of stained-glass windows has been considered “craftmanship”. Repairing generally aimed at stabilising windows, fixing missing or broken pieces, and making panels watertight and windproof. No attention was thus paid to the value of these stained-glass windows as works of art, made by important artists or designers. A transdisciplinary approach guarantees more well-founded interventions today: with attention to the (art)historical value and significance, and making use of better techniques and materials.
The glazier’s secrets (lecture + workshop)
Stained-glass windows continue to fascinate. How is it possible to cut the hard yet fragile glass into such beautiful shapes? And what is the difference between coloured glass and stained glass? After an explanation of the characteristics of glass and the types of glass paints, a ‘glass cutting’ workshop will follow. Some of the glazier’s secrets will thus be unveiled.
Macro-XRF use in the examination of stained-glass windows
What is invisible to the eye can sometimes be brought to light by modern research techniques. This is particularly useful in the examination of stained-glass windows. The relevance of Macro-XRF will be demonstrated by several interesting case studies. This technique makes it possible to visualise the presence of chemical elements on stained-glass windows. This not only provides useful information for dating the glass but also for detecting e.g. later repaintings.
A methodical look at stained glass windows: the Rumbeke case study
A truly remarkable stained-glass window can be found in Rumbeke Castle. It is not only the oldest secular stained-glass window still in its original location in Belgium, it also has a fascinating history, marked by several alterations over the centuries. This lecture demonstrates the importance of combining architectural, archival, and art historical research with scientific analyses such as Macro-XRF and microscopy.
The 13th-century Annunciation-panel from Notre-Dame, Paris
A few years ago, the Annunciation-panel from the Museum Mayer Vanden Bergh in Antwerp was restored in the workshop of Joost Caen. This important 13th-century panel, originating from Notre-Dame cathedral in Paris, has a remarkable history. The full story, together with many specific material and technical characteristics, came to light during its restoration.
Stained-glass roundels: gems of architectural glass art
Not all stained-glass windows are monumental and religious. Less well-known, but at least as interesting, are the small roundels made for bourgeois homes. As the members of the bourgeoisie became wealthier in the late Middle Ages, they too longed for expensive stained glass. Moreover, these transparent paintings were often designed by the most important artists of their time. This lecture focuses on the roundel: its history as well as the many special depictions and their significance.
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