Design for mausoleum window

Louis C. Tiffany|Tiffany Studios

late 19th–early 20th century · Watercolor on paper · The American Wing

While many of Tiffany Studios’ mausoleum windows refer to religious notions of the afterlife, this design encourages the viewer to reflect on their actions on earth. The quote from Plato’s "Laws," known as the "Golden Rule," serves as a reminder to the living to treat others fairly. Although both Christian and Jewish traditions teach this concept, the decision to quote an ancient Greek text over scripture may have been a request from a patron who did not identify with any religious tradition. The ancient source of the text and its key scroll border also suggest an effort to adhere to the classical design scheme commonly used for mausoleums.

Artist

Louis C. Tiffany|Tiffany Studios

Date

late 19th–early 20th century

Medium

Watercolor on paper

Culture

American

Department

The American Wing

Credit line

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