My camera and I went out for a walk this evening. It’s the last day of October, 2016, unseasonably warm with a light breeze, and the trees here still have most of their multi-colored leaves. I’ve often thought autumn leaves must have been the original inspiration for the creation of stained glass windows. The darkness of the silhouetted trees, outstretched limbs and branches providing influence for the iron or lead frames. Brilliance in countless hues and variations must have been the motivation that called and challenged artists longing to capture and recreate a small part of the seasonal splendor.
Don’t misunderstand me, I’m not suggesting that leaves alone are the inspiration for stained glass. I know many stained glass windows are historical treasures; keeping record of some of the most important moments in our human history. But I do think the way the light shines through autumn leaves must have played some role in the concept of stained glass. And as I contemplated that very thought, the sun slipped a little lower in the west, shined through the canopy, and the air itself seems to change colors. Copper, red, green and gold cover the landscape at the end of this day.
I love stained glass. Windows, sun catchers, ornaments, you name it. But truly ~ I love finding and seeing things that could have inspired stained glass even more.
Today in the midst of obligations, responsibilities and other distractions, make some time to gaze upon and appreciate something beautiful……like stained glass….or something that could have inspired it.
Welcome to November everyone, peace be with you all.
Kelly's keyboard 