How to Look at Stained Glass: A Guide to the Church Windows of England

How to Look at Stained Glass is a guide to the stained-glass windows of England's churches, featuring a list of the top 50 places to see outstanding examples. It explores stained glass by themes, patterns, designs, and effects, and makes looking at windows both entertaining and rewarding.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 13 April 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The captivating world of stained glass windows in England's churches is a treasure trove of history, art, and craftsmanship that often goes unnoticed. These magnificent windows, with their vibrant colors and intricate designs, hold a timeless appeal that transcends time and religion. However, they tend to be overlooked as a form of creative and artistic expression, overshadowed by the architectural grandeur of the churches themselves.

In reality, churches are accessible treasure troves of history, art, and craftsmanship, offering a unique opportunity to explore the rich heritage of England. No other set of historic buildings boasts such superb and important architectural and artistic assets, making them easily accessible to the public.

"How to Look at Stained Glass" is the companion guide that is needed to make sense of and enjoy the vast array of stained-glass windows in the churches of England. This fresh, unstuffy guide employs an A-Z format to reveal a multitude of fascinating details, ranging from apples to zig-zags. It explores stained glass by themes, patterns, designs, and effects, requiring no previous historical, artistic, or religious knowledge.

The book covers all the major periods and styles, from medieval to modern, Victorian to postwar, eighteenth century to Arts and Crafts, figurative to abstract. It examines the fascinating and evolving iconography of stained glass, making looking at gloriously colorful, artistically important windows both entertaining and rewarding.

In addition to its comprehensive coverage, the book features a list of the top 50 places to see outstanding examples of stained glass windows. These locations, scattered across England, offer a glimpse into the finest craftsmanship and artistic achievements of the past. Whether you are an avid history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of stained glass, this guide will provide you with a valuable insight into the world of these magnificent windows.

Furthermore, the book offers a useful index of churches by county, making it easier for readers to plan their visits and explore the rich diversity of stained-glass windows in England.

In conclusion, "How to Look at Stained Glass" is a must-have guide for anyone who wants to discover the magic of stained glass windows in the churches of England. It offers a comprehensive and accessible approach to understanding and appreciating these magnificent works of art, making them both entertaining and rewarding. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a local seeking to explore your surroundings, this book will provide you with a unique perspective on the history, art, and craftsmanship of stained glass windows.

Weight: 466g
Dimension: 156 x 234 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789942330