The Rose Window: A Symbol Of Hope Amidst The Notre Dame Disaster

The Rose Stained Glass Windows Of Notre Dame

As the whole world watched on in sadness, the Notre Dame Cathedral burned to the ground this week.  Our collective thoughts raced as to the safety of anyone inside and the fate of the host of historical relics, artworks, and unparalleled architectural structures.  Many of us thought for sure these items and more were engulfed in flames or very close to it and we grieved for what was lost. For us here at Stained Glass Denver, our minds went to the Rose Window and as we watched the burning spire quickly sink into a fiery blur, our hearts too sunk, assuming it was lost to time and fire.  This is because we are more than just stained glass restorers here at Stained Glass Denver, but stained glass appreciators too. And to us, there truly is almost no other stained glass window in the world that represents the purest and oldest form of stained glass art as the beloved Rose Window Of Notre Dame.

The History Of The Rose Window Of Notre Dame

This ethereal window was constructed in the 13th century during the Gothic period but is as relevant today as it was eons ago. Whether due to the striking blend of bold colors (something that never goes out of style) or  because of the fractal, almost floral pattern in which each demure panel is placed– this window could as just as easily pass for a modern marvel as it does for Gothic masterpiece–a dichotomy that is part of its appeal. However, the Rose Window of Notre Dame was built for perils just like we witnessed this week–by distributing weight equally across a perforated stone wall of traversing apertures–this window is as rugged as it is breathtaking.  The lovely but stalwart structural style also happens to lend itself to making the Rose Window appear much more fragile than it actually is. As we have written about many time in our blog–stained glass is very durable– something we recall each restoration we undertake and still have yet to fully appreciate ourselves. The Rose Window of Notre Dame–is no exception.

“Although the wooden roof is gone, the vaulted stone ceiling below and the iconic rose windows have been saved, the latter at least surviving in “good shape,” Lt. Col. Gabriel Plus

Knowing the Rose window was built to last is why we have such high hopes for the fate of the Rose Window.  While not completely in the clear yet–because of the failing structures all around it, it is our deep hope that this window will prevail–as it has over the last 700+ years. It has stood strong through wars, invasions, plagues, riots, occupations–never failing, always the same.  If history offers any glimpse into what will become of this iconic stained glass window, we know it will surely endure. Yes, it will be in need of a major restoration and many hours of painstaking repairs but still has a future full of hope. Truly this piece of religious art will stay intact for scores of generations yet to come, and because of this trial, will be a piece of stained glass art that even more so represents the human spirit in us all– something that has seen the world change but somehow remains the same.

For inquiries on a stained glass restoration on your church or home contact us at Stained Glass Denver today.  We serve all of Colorado and numerous other regions across the US and would love to work with you to restore the beauty of your stained glass.

Martin Faith

Martin Faith is a talented artisan, collector of antique stained glass, and the owner of Stained Glass Denver. For over thirty years, Martin has been running his company in Denver using the techniques he learned as a stained glass artisan in Scotland. He has devoted his life's work to perfecting the art form and studying its history. Martin's company specializes in custom creations, which are made using the highest quality materials and authentic, original designs. In addition to residential and commercial stained glass, the company also offers services for churches and religious buildings. Over the years, Stained Glass Denver has completed numerous restorations of historic stained glass and produced over 50,000 windows.