Fragment

Art Historical Context

This delicate *Fragment* from 15th-century Europe exemplifies the luminous artistry of medieval stained glass, a medium that transformed cathedrals into glowing narratives of faith and beauty. Crafted by an unknown artist, this tiny piece—measuring just 1 1/2 × 2 11/16 inches—survives as a testament to the grandeur of larger Gothic windows, many of which were lost to time, war, or architectural changes. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Medieval Art department since its 1930 gift from George D. Pratt, it invites us to ponder the vibrant panels that once filtered sunlight through sacre...