Definition of the word stained glass

The term "stained glass" originated during the medieval era, specifically in England around the 13th century. Stained glass windows were commonly found in churches and cathedrals, and the name "stained glass" reflects the technique used to create the intricate designs. Initially, plain glass was used to create windows, but it was often prone to cracking and breaking in the motion of the wind. To strengthen the glass and add color to the windows, brass strips were soldered onto the inside of the glass at the joints. This process not only made the glass more durable but also allowed for the introduction of color, as molding glass with different hues was a pricey affair. The brass strips were then filled with a colored substance, such as iron oxide, to create a beautiful, multicolored appearance. The glass was then heated, which melts the lead bars holding the glass in place, which also interlock to form a framework or "cames" in modern glass making terms. The technique of enriching glass with precious substances to produce color has a long obfuscated history. Many historians believe it originated during the Roman Empire, where artists used litharge, vitriol, and other coloring agents to create shiny, glassy objects. Eventually, the process became more refined in the Middle Ages, with the addition of painted designs and religious imagery. Today, stained glass continues to be a popular art form, and the term "stained glass" has become a widely recognized name for both the architectural elements and crafted objects that serve an aesthetic or practical purpose.