Window Coverings in Medieval Castles and Houses: An Exploration of Diversity and Necessity
In the medieval period, the scarcity of glass windows was a defining characteristic, reflecting the limitations of technology and the socio-economic conditions of the time. Unable to produce large panes of glass commonly seen today, medieval structures utilized a variety of window coverings to meet their needs. This exploration will delve into the alternatives used and the historical context that shaped these unique solutions.
The Rarity of Glass Windows in Medieval Period
During the early centuries of the Middle Ages, the production of glass in large panes was a technology that had not yet been mastered. As a result, most castles and houses relied on several alternative methods to manage light, airflow, and protection from the elements.
Wooden Shutters
One widespread alternative was the use of wooden shutters. These could be opened or closed to control light and airflow, serving as a practical solution to manage the interior environment of a building.
Cloth or Leather Coverings
Cloth or leather were other commonly used materials. These coverings could be easily pulled aside when light was needed, providing a simple but effective solution.
Oiled Paper
Oiled paper was another inventive solution. It allowed light to pass through while offering some protection from the elements, making it a popular choice in certain regions.
Small Glass Panes
By the late medieval period, around the 13th century, small panes of glass began to appear in some wealthy households and public buildings. However, these were expensive and not widely available.
Wattle and Daub
In some cases, buildings left some openings uncovered, allowing air and light to enter but making them more vulnerable to the weather.
The Evolution of Window Coverings in Medieval England
In England, pre-16th century windows were often constructed from stone or timber with unglazed openings. Various materials like oiled cloth, paper, and even thin horn sheets were used to cover these openings. Glazed windows were reserved primarily for the most significant and affluent structures, characterized by small panes of glass set in lead strip latticework.
The Rise of Glazed Windows in the Tudor Era
The 16th century saw significant progress. With the rise of the Tudor dynasty and a growing prosperity, windows grew larger, and wealthy households began to use window size and extravagance as a means of displaying their wealth. Even so, glazed windows remained rare in smaller, less affluent homes.
The Advanced Process of Glass Making in the Roman Era
Although glass windows were rare in the post-Roman period, the use of stained glass in cathedrals highlights that glass was not entirely absent. This era saw the invention of clear glass panes in the late 3rd century CE, which involved blowing a cylindrical bubble of glass, slicing it lengthwise, and then flattening the result.
The Dark Ages and the Loss of Glass-Making Techniques
With the fall of the Roman Empire, many technologies, including glass-making, were lost. Domestic windows remained unglazed, with wooden shutters used to keep out the cold. Animal hides or parchment treated with oil provided an alternative but were often small and crude.
The Revival of Glass-Making Techniques in the Middle Ages
During the medieval period, glassmakers once again developed ways to produce flat window glass. In the 14th century, French glassblowers developed the crown glass process, where a hollow bubble of glass was spun into a flattened disc. Cylinder glass techniques were also revived, yielding smaller panes of glass. These innovations allowed the wealthy to afford glass windows.
The Increasing Use of Glass Windows in the 16th Century
By the mid-16th century, window glass became more common. However, it remained a luxury item for most. Only the most important rooms in upper-class houses were equipped with glass windows. By the end of the 16th century, the nicest middle-class homes had glass in about half their windows, and some aristocrats stored their window glass carefully when absent.
Despite advancements, the scarcity of glass windows in the medieval period reflects the sophistication of alternative solutions developed over time. These innovations, driven by necessity and technological advancements, continue to intrigue historians and provide insight into the diverse yet resilient nature of medieval life.