Modern and historical Christian churches aren’t the only places you’ll find stained glass windows. In reality, the architectural style can be seen dating all the way back to the times of Romans and Egyptians.

However, colored glass didn’t truly reach its peak in popularity until the Middle Ages.

During the time period, it became a grand pictorial form for illustrating passages and saints from the Bible. Of course, kings were often display upon these artistic windows too yet, their main purpose was to educate the largely illiterate masses.

Since then, Gothic architecture has considerable died down although, there have been a few modern revivals. For instance, you’ll still find stained glass windows on numerous public landmarks, places of worship and private properties here and there.

Not to mention, famous artists from around the world have managed to incorporate the style into their paintings. Many of which are prized collector pieces found in museums. There’s also the iconic household lamps produced by the American artist, Louis Comfort Tiffany.

History aside, I’m sure you probably curious to know how stained glass is made in the first place. The process starts with silica, the main ingredient being heated to extremely high temperatures. From there other minerals are added such as metallic oxide powders. For instance, copper oxide turns glass green with hues of blue. A little cobalt products a solid, deep blue color.

In terms of modern glass-making, copper is primarily used. In earlier times gold had been used to acquire colors like red and violet.

With that said, take a moment to explore the bold lines and colorful styles found in these top 80 best stained glass tattoo designs for men below. While a great deal of men today get them for religious meanings, you’ll still find abstract ideas which are just as impressive and mysterious.