Stained Glass

Stained glass is associated with Islamic architecture, which is characterized by its decorations expressing the Islamic identity, and its considered one of the most important ancient arts of glass manufacturing, which is widely used in mosques and historical places, with its inscriptions on glass and various decorations of plant and geometric elements and shapes.

Method of making stained glass

The term stained refers to the intertwining of two things with each other, and the stained glass is pieces of colored glass that are colored during manufacturing by adding metal oxides to the original composition of the glass and cut according to the design and the location of its installation in the building, and then formed by metal strips of copper and plaster – known as gypsum.

History of stained glass

It is the prevalent art in Islamic architecture in the past. In the Arab region then spread to the world, and the most important example of Islamic heritage is the Dome of the Rock in Palestine. The Arabs used gypsum in the manufacture of stained glass, as it gives a bright white color and is decorated with geometric and floral shapes, As for the western stained glass, lead rods are used in it, and this is compatible with the cold climate, and it is decorated with forms that suit the religious identity there, suns and moons appeared, another name for stained glass, according to its use. If it is round in shape, its called lunar, and if it is not round, it is called solar.

The beauty of its use or its advantages

• Helps reduce the intensity of sunlight.
• Preserving the privacy of the residents: the possibility of blocking vision and giving privacy and independence to the place.
• Adding artistic and aesthetic lighting: through the passage of natural light that gives gradual colors according to the strength of the light during the day, especially when the design is reflected on the walls or floors.
• The use of strong colors: blue, red, yellow and violet, all of which, when reflected in sunlight, are suitable for all colors of furniture and decoration and show their aesthetic value.

Ideas for using stained-glass

• Residential and commercial buildings and mosques: Glass can be placed in any part of the building, preferably exposed to the sun, and used to decorate domes and skylights, especially in palaces.
• Home décor: it is an essential element in the décor due to its decorative character and the aesthetic elegance it gives to any space.
• Windows in particular: The aim of using stained glass is to control light and add aesthetic value according to colors and density. Stained glass windows are called wall decoration eliminated.

Article written by: Eman Al Shakilya
Marketing and Business Development Department