Windows for the World: Nineteenth-century Stained Glass and the International Exhibitions, 1851–1900

Windows for the world examines the display and reception of nineteenth-century stained glass in an international and secular context, through ten exhibitions held in Britain, France, the USA and Australia between 1851 and 1900. It is the first study to explore the global development of stained glass as showcased at and influenced by these events. Drawing on hundreds of contemporary written and visual sources, the book recognises artists and makers, as well as those who reviewed and judged the exhibits. It provides close readings of specific exhibits in relation to stylistic developments, material and technological innovations, iconographic themes and visual ideologies. At the same time, it broadens approaches to post-medieval stained glass by examining the wider cultural, political, economic and global contexts of its production, circulation and critical reception.

Each of the themed chapters highlights a different aspect of stained glass in the nineteenth century. This includes material taxonomies, modes of display, stylistic eclecticism, exhibitors’ international networks, production and consumption, and nationalism and imperialism. The book challenges several methodological and historiographical assumptions and paradigms, making a substantial contribution not only to the history of stained glass, but to global nineteenth-century studies.