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Home > Discovery > Discover Chartres > Masters of Stained Glass
Masters of Stained Glass
Inspiring and mysterious the stained glass window is inseparable from Gothic architecture.
From the first Gothic churches in the 12th century stained-glass windows brought color and light into dark stone churches, while their intricate designs depicted stories for a largely illiterate population. Famous for the particular shade of “Chartres blue” developed in its workshops today, Chartres has one of the most complete collections of original stained glass in all of France. And throughout the city, local schools and craftsmen continue to develop the art of stained glass.
A visit to Chartres isn’t complete without a stop at the Centre International du Vitrail, the city’s stained-glass museum, adjacent to the church.
The Centre International du Vitrail:
The Centre International du Vitrail (stained glass) located near the cathedral features regular exhibitions of both modern and ancient stained-glass techniques. Dedicated to the art of light and glass, the center is an exhibition space, research center and school.
Classes in stained-glass making, taught by a master glassmaker, are open to the public and conducted in French: From 390 euros the course.
For more information on the Centre International du Vitrail
Studio Loire: Artists in Stained Glass
For three generations the Loire family has been devoted to the art of stained glass. Located on the outskirts of Chartres, the studios have brought their expertise to projects on five continents, helping to restore masterpieces of medieval architecture as well as creating original stained-glass artwork for modern masterpieces such as Philip Johnson’s Thanks-Giving Square chapel in Dallas, Texas.
Begun in 1946 by Gabriel Loire (1904-1996), today the studio is managed by Jacques, Hervé and Bruno, son and grandsons of Gabriel Loire. You must call ahead for a visit, but it is well worth it to see this magic place.
Masters of Stained Glass
Inspiring and mysterious the stained glass window is inseparable from Gothic architecture.
From the first Gothic churches in the 12th century stained-glass windows brought color and light into dark stone churches, while their intricate designs depicted stories for a largely illiterate population. Famous for the particular shade of “Chartres blue” developed in its workshops today, Chartres has one of the most complete collections of original stained glass in all of France. And throughout the city, local schools and craftsmen continue to develop the art of stained glass.
A visit to Chartres isn’t complete without a stop at the Centre International du Vitrail, the city’s stained-glass museum, adjacent to the church.
The Centre International du Vitrail:
The Centre International du Vitrail (stained glass) located near the cathedral features regular exhibitions of both modern and ancient stained-glass techniques. Dedicated to the art of light and glass, the center is an exhibition space, research center and school.
Classes in stained-glass making, taught by a master glassmaker, are open to the public and conducted in French: From 390 euros the course.
For more information on the Centre International du Vitrail
Studio Loire: Artists in Stained Glass
For three generations the Loire family has been devoted to the art of stained glass. Located on the outskirts of Chartres, the studios have brought their expertise to projects on five continents, helping to restore masterpieces of medieval architecture as well as creating original stained-glass artwork for modern masterpieces such as Philip Johnson’s Thanks-Giving Square chapel in Dallas, Texas.
Begun in 1946 by Gabriel Loire (1904-1996), today the studio is managed by Jacques, Hervé and Bruno, son and grandsons of Gabriel Loire. You must call ahead for a visit, but it is well worth it to see this magic place.
