Design for Window

Louis C. Tiffany|Tiffany Studios

late 19th–early 20th century · Watercolor, gouache, and graphite on paper mounted on board in original matt · The American Wing

Memorial windows constituted a large number of the commissions received by the Tiffany Studios Ecclesiastical Department. Many of these windows depict biblical scenes, yet Tiffany often preferred designs without overtly religious references. To deflect criticism that his windows lacked religious sentiment, Tiffany and his designers frequently incorporated symbolic flowers and plants into their designs. This practice can be seen in the design drawing for a community mausoleum window, commissioned by the wealthy Kansas City lumber baron Robert A. Long. The robed woman, described as an “Angel of Resurrection” on the reverse of the mat, is surrounded by lilies, poppies, and cypresses, symbolizing the hope of life after death.

Artist

Louis C. Tiffany|Tiffany Studios

Date

late 19th–early 20th century

Medium

Watercolor, gouache, and graphite on paper mounted on board in original matt

Culture

American

Department

The American Wing

Credit line

Purchase, Walter Hoving and Julia T. Weld Gifts and Dodge Fund, 1967