Centre for Stained Glass

Ars Lucis - The Art of Light

Introduction

Ars Lucis, established in 2025 as a knowledge centre for stained glass, specialises in art historical and technical research, as well as providing expert advice and training on stained glass conservation and restoration. The organisation’s expertise extends to historical clear window glass.

Central to our work is a significant stained-glass collection, featuring pieces spanning from the Middle Ages to contemporary times. This collection is being systematically documented and made accessible, accompanied by a comprehensive subject-specific library.

In addition, we host a range of programmes designed to engage both researchers and the general public with the field of architectural glass.

Would you like to stay informed about all this?

Get inspired by the light and colour of nine centuries of stained-glass art.

The collection

Ars Lucis manages one of the largest private collections of architectural glass art in the world. The oldest item dates from the early 13th century, and the youngest from the 21st century. We can, therefore, safely say that the collection spans nine centuries of stained-glass art. Most of it comes from what is now Belgium, although the Netherlands, France, Great Britain, Germany and Switzerland are also represented.

In addition to stained-glass windows, glass panels, and fragments, the collection features a comprehensive library dedicated to this subject. The collection is further enhanced by various archival materials and historical glass artifacts, contributing to its completeness.

Our vision

Ars Lucis serves as a hub for knowledge, research, and the renewed appreciation of stained glass. For centuries, stained glass was considered a prestigious gift. The artists who designed and executed them were among the best. For example, in the 15th-17th centuries, names such as Dirck Vellert (c. 1480-1547), Pieter Coecke van Aelst (1502-1550) and Jan de Labaer (1603-1668) were on a par with those of Bernard van Orley (c. 1487/ 1491-1514), Lucas van Leyden (c. 1494-1533) and Pieter-Paul Rubens (1577-1640). Moreover, these famous painters often collaborated with glass painters.

The significant art historical value of glass painting is often underappreciated today. Consequently, many may be unaware that the Flemish Masterpieces List features numerous stained-glass windows and glass panels, some of which are held within our collection.

Many stained-glass panels are admired for the refinement and craftsmanship evident in their creation. The iconography depicted within these works provides significant insight into their historical and symbolic importance, particularly when they remain in their original architectural context. Large stained-glass installations, commonly found in churches and monasteries, but also in town halls and private residences, offer enhanced experiential value. The interplay between sunlight and coloured glass significantly influences the ambience of interior spaces, creating an effect that continues to impress viewers.

Centre for Stained Glass

Ars Lucis - The Art of Light

Introduction

Get inspired by the light and colour of nine centuries of stained-glass art.

The collection

Our vision

Ars Lucis helps anyone who has a professional or personal interest in stained glass and all other types of decorative and/or historical glazing.

Would you like to stay informed about our activities?

Would you like access to benefits such as free consultation of the collection and participation in activities?

Do you have a specific question?

The following video gives a short introduction on the inspiration and objectives of Ars Lucis (dutch only).