Stained glass dates back to ancient Egypt, where colored glass was used in decorative items. The technique flourished in the Middle Ages, particularly in Gothic cathedrals, to depict biblical stories. The famous Chartres Cathedral in France features over 150 stunning stained glass windows, some dating back to the 12th century. The use of lead came to hold pieces of glass together became standard in the 12th century, revolutionizing the craft. Stained glass was not just decorative; it served an educational purpose, teaching the illiterate about religious narratives.Modern stained glass artists often blend traditional techniques with contemporary designs, expanding the art form’s boundaries.