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Faceted Glass (Dalle de Verre)

Faceted glass, also known as dalle de verre and slab glass, is a modern architectural art glass technique developed in the early 20th century in France.

Process

American stained glass studios began using this technique almost thirty years later. Faceted glass windows are composed of raw, thick, unpainted glass with deep color and shimmering sparkle. The light rays coming through the glasses are refracted in the same way achieved by the faceting of a gem. Brilliantly colored glass, usually an inch in thickness, but up to two or more inches for special effects is cut to the desired size. The inner surface of certain pieces is then chipped or faceted to add a jewel-like quality due to the refraction of light rays shining through the glass. The thickness of the glass assures the radiance and purity of color which are characteristic of the medium. The matrix of concrete or epoxy is poured around the arranged pieces of glass, holding them in place to form a structural unit of great strength. The design possibilities of this medium are infinite as it adapts to the smallest openings or to entire wall surfaces.

Usage

First Presbyterian Church, Stamford, CT

Designed by Wallace Harrison and built in 1957, this structure was created in the shape of a giant whale and houses floor-to-ceiling faceted glass windows. The windows were designed and fabricated by Gabriel Loire, of France. In total, the glass fenestration contains more than 20,000 pieces of faceted glass and depicts the Crucifixion and Resurrection of Christ.

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