Symbolic Stained Glass

Stained Glass Art featuring Christian Symbolism

Symbolism is the representation of an idea or object through the use of something else. Writers and artists routinely employ symbolism in their works, and it is also an important aspect of the Christian religion. Some symbols are found in the Bible. Jesus Himself regularly used symbolism in His parables, and managed to make complex lessons and doctrines more relatable and easier to comprehend. Others symbols emerged some time after Christianity became a well-established religion. Regardless of their origins and histories of use, Christian symbols are excellent choices for church stained glass windows. Many of these symbolic stained glass images are beautiful studies of light and color in their own right; the ideas they represent add yet another layer of significance.

A stained glass window panel featuring different Christian symbols.

Christian Stained Glass Windows: Some Common Symbols

Some church stained glass windows for sale feature relatively obscure Christian symbols, but many include images individuals with a good knowledge of the Bible and the Christian faith will be familiar with. A few common symbols featured in religious stained glass are:

• Doves: The Holy Trinity consists of Jesus, God the Father, and the Holy Spirit. While the first two are often depicted as a young and old man, respectively, in stained glass panels, the latter is often represented by a snow white dove.
• Wheat and Grapes: These are of course the main ingredients in bread and wine. Stained glass artists often choose to make these plants the focus of religious works because they are symbols of the Eucharist. This ritual is performed in memory of Jesus during Christian masses.
• Crowns: This symbol included in some Christian stained glass windows is fairly straightforward. Christ is referred to as a king numerous times in the Bible, and so the crown is used to represent the position of power held by Him. If a crown in a work of stained glass art is made of thorns, it is a symbol of Christ’s suffering before His death on the cross.

Those searching for Christian stained glass windows that employ the use of symbolism should consider the meaning of the symbols, whether parishioners will recognize the idea represented in the stained glass art, if the symbolic stained glass design will work with the architectural style of the church, and also the aesthetic appeal of the stained glass art.

A Greek symbol for Christ is illustrated in stained glass.

Possible Applications for Church Stained Glass by Stained Glass Inc.:

• Use back lighting to create luminous virtual stained glass windows or skylights that can be enjoyed any time
• Create a glorious illuminated pulpit front displaying scenes in the life of Jesus or symbols of the faith
• Honor lost congregation members or generous donors by adding their names to your Catholic stained glass
• Get custom stained glass signage displaying the name of your church and images that have special meaning to your parish

View our extensive selection of gorgeous symbolic art glass windows and hundreds of other stained glass images by visiting our site!