Glass Fragment

Art Historical Context

This delicate glass fragment, dating to the 15th, offers a glimpse into the luminous world of medieval European stained glass. Crafted from pot metal glass—a technique where metal oxides like copper for reds and cobalt for blues were mixed into molten glass before shaping—it measures just 3¼ x 1⅜ inches. Likely salvaged from a larger church window, it exemplifies the intricate artistry of Gothic-era workshops, where such pieces transformed dim cathedrals into vibrant storytelling spaces illuminated by sunlight. Pot metal glass was prized for its jewel-like translucency and durability, allowin...