The History of Tiffany Stained Glass

Louis C. Tiffany created a variety of stained glass artworks.

According to the New York Landmarks Conservancy, Louis C. Tiffany & Company used ancient techniques to create masterworks of stained glass art. His style fell into decline during his lifetime but regained popularity in the 1950s.

Beginnings

Louis C. Tiffany, whose father Charles Tiffany founded the famous jewelry shop Tiffany & Company, initially went into business as a maker of decorative textiles and wallpaper. He turned his artistic eye to the medium of stained glass in 1883.

Methods

Tiffany turned away from the then-common method of simply painting on glass in favor of the old traditions, mixing natural coloring agents directly into the glass to achieve stunning effects.

Works

In addition to his stained glass windows, Tiffany created a wide range of other works from lamps and chandeliers to pottery, according to the Morse Museum.

Peak and Decline

Tiffany’s work enjoyed great prestige until around 1910, when his stained glass windows lost favor with the public and with architects. By 1931 the company had gone bankrupt.

Revival

After suffering decades of neglect and deterioration, Tiffany’s popularity enjoyed a resurgence in the 1950s, leading to museum exhibits of many of his works and recognition for his artistic innovations.

References

• New York Landmarks Conservancy: Tiffany Stained Glass Windows
• Morse Museum: Louis Comfort Tiffany