The Rose Window, a revered online resource created by Painton Cowen, has been a beacon for students, scholars, and enthusiasts of medieval stained glass. With over 44,000 photographs documenting pre-1800 stained glass at more than 600 locations, this website has been an indispensable tool for educational and research purposes. As it stands, this digital archive receives about 5,000 visits daily from people worldwide.
As Painton approaches retirement, the future of The Rose Window hangs in the balance. Despite extensive efforts and consultations over the past two years, an institution that can take over and sustain the website has yet to be found.
However, a glimmer of hope shines through the collaboration with the International Corpus Vitrearum (ICVMA), which, under the guidance of digital chair Sarah Pittroff, has agreed to house and maintain Painton’s invaluable materials.
Urgent Financial Assistance Needed
The Rose Window urgently needs help to settle outstanding loans amounting to €35,000 by August 1st, 2024. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to secure the necessary funds to preserve this cultural treasure.
How You Can Help
We’re calling on the global community, art lovers, historians, educators, and anyone who cherishes cultural heritage to come together and contribute to saving The Rose Window. Your donation can ensure that this free resource continues to enlighten and inspire future generations. Contributions of any size make a difference and will be recognised in a special ‘Amici Vitrearum’ (Friends of Glass) list.
Should The Rose Window exceed its fundraising goal, the additional funds will be directed towards humanitarian efforts, aiding in the reconstruction of Ukraine and Gaza.
To contribute, please visit the GoFundMe page.
Your support can make a real difference in preserving this unique repository of stained glass art. Let’s ensure that The Rose Window continues to shine brightly as a source of learning and inspiration.
For more information about The Rose Window and to explore its vast collection, please visit the website and find out more about the appeal here.
Medieval Art Research 