Chartres West Rose Window

Chartres cathedral is currently undergoing a renovation that started in 2008 and will continue through 2015 at a cost of $350 million. As of 2011, two major chapels-Martyrs and the Apostles have been restored. One source says that 160,000 square feet of original plasterwork is now visible, returned to its 13th century glory. This photo shows the contrast between the newly renovated walls and the walls with 800 years of dirt, grit, smoke, soot. The West Rose window from the 13th century depicts the Last Judgment. The Jessee Window is at bottom right, the Passion Window is at bottom left, and the Life of Christ Window is bottom center. The bottom windows date from around 1150.

churchcathedralphotowest rosewindowstained glassChartresLady of ChartresKent Beckernot my day job photographyFrance