A Tribute to Pilgrims, Past and Present
I was honoured to be approached by our local mayor to create a custom stained glass piece in recognition of the pilgrims who pass through Saint-Lézer on their journey to Santiago de Compostela.
The design is built around three symbolic elements:
√ The French flag forms the backdrop with its striking blue, white, and red—signifying national pride and the warm hospitality extended to all who pass through.
√ The scallop shell, universally recognised as the emblem of the Camino de Santiago, signposts the sacred path travelled by countless pilgrims over the centuries.
√ The coat of arms of Saint-Lézer sits at the heart of the design, connecting the piece to local heritage and community.
This creation is deeply personal to me. My wife and I cycled 1,200 kilometres of the Camino de Santiago in just 13 days—an experience that pushed us mentally, physically, and spiritually. That journey became the inspiration behind this piece.
Technique:
Traditional lead came and colored glass, with 3D decorative jewelry integrated into the coat of arms.
Dimensions:
90 × 90 cm, designed as a hanging piece.
Glass Types:
A mix of plain and textured stained glass to maximize light play, with fleckled elements that scatter sunlight across the stone walls.
Color Palette:
Bold reds, whites, and blues form the French national flag, complemented by warm golds and soft neutrals to highlight the scallop shell and insignia.
Special Features:
Built in three symbolic layers—the French flag as the foundation, the scallop shell representing centuries of pilgrims, and the coat of arms of Saint-Lézer adorned with jewelry details.
Location:
Hung in the 14th-century Priory of Saint-Lézer.
Interested in a Commissioned Piece?
Each commission is a collaboration. If you have a story, space, or idea you'd like to bring to life in stained glass, I'd be happy to explore it with you.