Symbolic Rose Windows

Symbolic Rose Windows in Stained Glass

An image is symbolic when its form or appearance are used to represent objects, individuals, or ideas, and stained glass rose windows certainly fit this definition. There is a modern day association between the rose and the mother of Christ, and the twelve divisions often found in rose windows can be connected to time and the number of Christ’s Apostles. Rose windows are classic examples of Gothic stained glass, but they can add to the aesthetic appeal of churches and cathedrals that feature a wide variety of architectural styles. The sheer perfection of the circle as well as the warm glow and dancing, scattering light emitted by rose windows can serve as a representation of the divine and promote calmness and tranquility in all those who gaze upon them.

A beautifully colored rose window featuring the cross.

Ideas for Symbolic Rose Windows

One need only look to the Bible and Christian theology to find a vast array of symbols that have religious significance. Some that can easily be incorporated into the design of rose windows are:

• The Crown of Thorns: Crowns are typically a symbol of honor and power, but the one placed on Christ’s head before His crucifixion was used to mock and deride Him. Rose windows showing the crown of thorns signify Christ’s Passion and sacrifice.
• The Lamb: Jesus is referred to as the Lamb of God in the Gospel of John. When John the Baptist sees Jesus, he says: “Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.” When used to represent Christ, the lamb signifies His humility and also the fact that He acted as a sacrificial lamb when He died on the cross for the sins of man.
• Crossed Keys: Two crossed keys symbolize the “Keys of Heaven,” which were given to Peter by Christ. Today, they represent the religious authority of the pope, and are therefore very fitting choices for works of Catholic stained glass.

The very best symbolic rose windows not only feature images that stand for the ideals of Christianity, but also glorious, multi-faceted colors and eye-catching patterns and shapes. Anyone looking for one or more rose windows for a sanctuary should consider all of these elements before making a selection.

A crown of thorns and other Christian symbols are pictured in this stained glass rose window.

Properties of Stained Glass Inc.’s Extraordinary Rose Windows:

• Get rose windows that can be illuminated anywhere, anytime when you take advantage of our LED back lighting options
• Rose windows by Stained Glass Inc. are shatter-resistant, lead-free, and easy to clean and maintain
• Rose windows can be manufactured in a variety of sizes to suit your religious space
• Rose windows will scatter brilliant light and color to transform any area into a source of wonder
• All of our rose windows are outstanding examples of stained glass artistry at its finest

View our collection of symbolic rose windows and find out more about our unique stained glass art by visiting our site!