Christ and Nicodemus
Frederick Wilson at Tiffany Studios:
Christ and Nicodemus
Tiffany Studios
Christ and Nicodemus
TIFFANY STUDIOS
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Types of glass: 1. Opalescent 2. Rippled 3. Mottled 4. Striated 5. Herringbone 6. Drapery 7. Hand Cut Jewels
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Painting on faces, hands, and feet
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Multilayers
This window was originally installed in North Congregational Church in Haverhill, Massachusetts. It is similar to other Tiffany windows based on the same biblical story.
SPECIAL FEATURES
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The talented Frederick Wilson designed and painted this window.
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The artist used copper foil to create the detailed design of the leaves and flowers. With this technique, the artist first cuts copper sheets into very thin pieces. He applies the copper lines to the edges of the glass pieces and then solders them together along the length of the seams. The copper foil perfectly follows the glass line, allowing the artist to stay true to the original design. In contrast, lead creates a more streamlined effect. This technique was used most often with landscapes.
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In this window, Tiffany created spectacular contrasts. Gold glass surrounded by dark glass creates the beautiful glow of the lantern. Christ is imbued with a rich glow in the foreground, while Nicodemus recedes into shadows. The cross above them further illuminates the nighttime setting. The predominately gold side panels hint at the coming dawn. The artist also juxtaposed the commanding figure of Jesus with the hesitant and more diminutive Nicodemus.
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The gold light emanating from the lantern creates a three-dimensional effect.
BIBLICAL STORY OF THE WINDOW
This window depicts the biblical story of Christ and Nicodemus. Nicodemus was a member of the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council responsible for the interpretation of civil and religious laws. He met with Jesus under the cover of darkness to learn more about his teachings.
Detail of Christ and Nicodemus
Tiffany Studios
Detail of Christ and Nicodemus
Tiffany Studios