Church Stained Glass Windows: Common Subjects and Themes

While works of stained glass are now displayed in many homes and hospitality locations, church stained glass windows are some of the most captivating examples of this art form. Religious stained glass was historically used to help those who could not read more readily understand the important lessons of the faith. Today, it still serves an educational purpose in churches and cathedrals. It is also used to inspire parishioners and add beauty to religious spaces. While church stained glass windows can be found throughout the world, they often depict similar subjects and themes. Following are some of the more popular ones:

• Symbols of Christ and the Holy Spirit: While lifelike images of Jesus Christ are displayed in many churches, some parishes prefer to use symbolism instead. A stained glass cross, for example, would be a universally recognized symbol of Christ, while a white dove is often used to represent the Holy Spirit.
• The Saints - Their Lives and Martyrdom: Saints are important figures in the Christian faith. Works featuring saints may simply show an image of the man or woman. They may also display the name of the saint, depict symbols commonly associated with him or her, or show the manner in which the saint was martyred.
• Important Biblical Events: The purpose of many religious artworks is to bring important Biblical events to life for parishioners. As mentioned in the introduction, this can be both educational and inspirational. Some possibilities include the Annunciation, the Assumption, and the Last Supper.
• The Life of Christ: Because Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of the Christian faith, it shouldn't come as any surprise that there are a multitude of works in churches depicting his life. Some of the more common themes are his birth, his childhood years with Mary and Joseph, the events leading up to his crucifixion, his suffering and death on the cross, and his resurrection.
• The Apostles: Christ's 12 Apostles may be depicted individually, with Christ, or with other members of this faithful group. Artistic representations of the Last Supper show all of the Apostles and Christ together.
• The Virgin Mary: Often depicted wearing blue robes, the mother of Jesus may be shown on her own or with her son. Her coronation in heaven is another common theme of religious art work.

It's important to keep in mind that although many pieces focus on similar themes and subjects, that doesn't necessarily mean they look anything alike. For instance, an important event from the Bible could be represented in a multitude of ways: with or without text, through the use of abstract or lifelike figures, with intricately patterned or simple backgrounds and borders, etc. Artists who produce church stained glass are able to create works that complement the color scheme and other elements found in religious spaces.

Stained Glass Inc. has hundreds of design options for your next stained glass project. Visit Church Stained Glass to learn more.