A Stained-Glass Storybook
1163 AD
1164 1164
02.20E48.48N
ARC

PARIS, FRANCE
	Notre Dame Cathedral's three famous rose windows were originally from the 13th and 14th centuries. They were covered with small images composed primarily of reds, blues, and purples that were not painted, but actually dyed into the glass. Later, the process for making thinner glass was refined, so that the glass could transmit more light. Additionally, compounds were created for the mixing of bright green and yellow paints.
	It might not occur to the modern visitor to ask why so many biblical scenes were represented on these stained windows. It's good to keep in mind that at the time these windows were erected, the great majority of people, including many in the upper classes, were unable to read. So, it was convenient to provide a sort of comic book approach to conveying the story of the Bible, and other religious themes.
	Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel provided a similar picture-book account of the Bible for the people of Rome.