Figure 2.25 The graceful figure of St Modeste lifts her mantle and raises her hand. In a gesture typical of the refined High Gothic style, she gently inclines her head to one side.
Chartres Cathedral has one of the most complete and precious collections of medieval stained glass in the world. Its windows are:
l large round or ‘rose’ windows on the west front and both transepts
l tall pointed lancet windows at ground level in the nave
l huge clerestory windows at the top level of the nave.
The Northern Rose (Fig. 2.27) is dedicated to the glorification of the Virgin. She is placed in the central light and is surrounded by doves and angels on the outer sections.
The South Portal
The south portal is dedicated to Jesus Christ, his apostles and his Church. It is 13th-century High Gothic style (Fig. 2.26).
Jesus Christ as teacher
Lifelike human gestures and expression; peaceful and calm appearance
Right hand is lifted in blessing
Cruciform nimbus (halo) behind his head
Christ as the teacher holds a book in his hand
Clothing falls in naturalistic folds
Gentle, refined imagery
He is the shepherd who gave his life for mankind
He welcomes the visitor
Figure 2.26 Jesus Christ on the central trumeau on the south portal of Chartres.
38
Figure 2.27 The rose window from the north transept, Chartres Cathedral.
Design a stained-glass window. Draw on the tracery and make out a pattern based on a lancet window from a Gothic cathedral. Make out a story and colour the figures in small sections broken by black lines. Make the window by cutting out the main shapes from black card. Glue coloured tissue or cellophane over the cut areas. Create the leading by drawing lines with a large black marker. Place this against a sunny window for effect.
