Window to the past

The capricious quality of stained glass has fascinated architects for centuries. Be it the awe-inspiring Gothic Cathedrals of Europe or the magnificent mosques of the Middle East or simple domestic interiors, stained glass has proved to be a powerful creative and decorative medium.

As nostalgia leads architects and interior designers to take cognizance of the innumerable possibilities with stained glass, Amethyst, the heritage house of arts and crafts, has put together an interesting exhibition of stained glass windows and panels.

First in its "Architectural Salvage" series, the exhibition showcases art glasses "restored from old, dilapidated buildings of the southern States of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala. Though just 75 in number, the collection is representative of the stylistic diversity of the medium. Geometric grids supporting subtle pictorial images, delicate floral patterns, vivid abstracts, dense foliage, religious motifs.. each reflects a superb sense of colour and technique. Be it the floral designs or the religious images, the works reflect how lithe lines and fluid shapes are translated easily into the medium. The colours, even sans the effect of light is captivating - some very English others absolutely ethnic.

Having been restored from razed structures of the early Twentieth Century, some of the pieces have been touched upon with care. Stained glass panels are often in the danger of becoming derelict. Sometimes there is discolouration too due to age. These stained glass beauties are priced Rs. 11,500 and above, and they could adorn your walls as quaint light-catchers or could simply be used as ornamental windows. And sure, they will bring in a veritable rainbow of hues to your interior. Perennially popular are the floral motifs as the circular forms are elegant and comforting. Images of Gods and Goddesses reflect the religiosity of its patrons and the restrained use of colour and simplicity of forms of the artist.

With its rich light-reflecting quality, stained glass has a charm of its own. Myriad emotions can be captured by the choice of colours - jewel-toned amber lends a vibrant touch, warm pinks and mute yellows give a romantic glow and the splash of luminous blues and greens gives a cheerful feel.

As for the shapes, they come in classic domes that complement the curved lines of glass art. There are perfect squares and rectangles too that accentuate the geometric patterns or abstract works. All the restored pieces have been framed in solid teak to hold it in place for the years to come. Some come in pairs.

The use of stained glass is yet to catch on in the city. As the sun's rays gleam through the colourful creations which kindle myriad emotional responses, one is intrigued by their origin, history and craftsmanship. "It's just a starting point... to revive interest in this rich art form. The architectural salvage series will unearth many such hoary art forms in the coming months." Meanwhile, isn't it time to carry home a piece of antiquity? Amethyst is located at No.14, Padmavathi Road, Jeypore Colony, Gopalapuram,Ph-8203582.

T. KRITHIKA REDDY

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