Righting a wrong

The original main entry doors to this facility had been fabricated from a rather thin grade of lead came which did not adequately support their usage. Duplicating them with the appropriate zinc metal and sturdy steel reinforcement bars ensure many years of durability.

New panel, zinc fabrication, all Lamberts hand blown glass. Craquel glass border- various color tints.

circa 1908

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devitrified glass border

A residential stained glass transom, unfortunately the red glass is in the process of devitrification, which is an irreversible condition, causing it to be brittle, stress fracture, and begin to crumble. I come across this every once in a while with Victorian panels, it has to do with either the recipe, and or annealing, of that particular run of glass at the time of manufacture.  Red, green and amber granite cats paw texture, are what I have seen it expressed in most. On one occasion, I viewed a lovely Victorian stair landing stained glass panel,  measuring approximately 4'X6', that had this problem. A fairly intricate design, sprinkled with faceted jewels, it was various amber glasses, including a background of amber cats paw glass completely full of stress cracks. Even so, it is not a common thing.


This image shows the panel after I have replaced the red glass boarder with new, matching the color and texture to the original. Cleaned it up a bit too.

My typical installation attire

The design references the existing victorian primitive stained glass in the home, but brings a modern flair!
As a side note, I do bring out the steel toe boots & hard hat per safety guidlines and always wear eye protection!

My next project is duplicating this panel from a historic Samuel Hannaford home undergoing renovation. Originaly there had been three transoms above the bay window, unfortunatly one was removed a number of years ago to accomodate a air conditioner and the present owners wish to complete the set. The challenge (and the fun) for me is tracking down matches for the lovely glass in this window.
It will take a little time but in the end will be able to get pretty close. the idea is have the new blend in with the old.

A recent project, laid out on the light table.