Design for Pope John Paul II Window

Saint John Paul II

The Pope’s Blessing of Peace

I have chosen to place the Pope John Paul II window in location 15. My reason for this is because the figure's overall light clothing and complexion will show up better in this northwest facing window, which receives no direct sunlight.

To compliment the remaining panels, I have chosen to base my design for window 15 on the frame and canopy of the window in location 7. This window is in the mirror position directly across the gallery. The adjacent panels in location 8 & 16 also mirror each other. This is an important element which respects the original architectural program.

Pope John Paul II rendering

Pope John Paul II leadline

The Figure of John Paul II

John Paul II is the most contemporary figure in the new stained glass program. The placement of this figure in this location 7 completes a thematic cycle for the viewer as they exit the baptistery through the North doorway.

The design will feature these elements: 

• Pope John Paul II is portrayed in windswept golden robes, as he so often addressed people in the outdoors.
• His upturned hand offers a blessing

The lower panel and upper panels

The lower panel features a representation of the Madonna of Czestochowa to which the pope had a special connection.  This icon is flanked by John Paul’s blue and gold coat of arms and a shield with the Eagle of Warsaw.

In the canopy above, a white dove of peace, as if just released, flies in the direction of the heart of the town of Pisa.