St Nicholas - Saint-Taurin, Evreux
This stained glass window (1480–1520) from Saint-Taurin, Évreux, is a masterful example of late medieval Norman glass art, blending Gothic spirituality with the emerging naturalism of the Renaissance. It visualizes both theological authority and popular devotion, making St. Nicholas a compassionate intercessor for all who viewed it.
St. Nicholas occupies the central vertical axis, emphasizing his authority and sanctity, is shown as a bishop, wearing traditional episcopal vestments: a richly decorated chasuble, alb, and mitre (bishop’s hat). He holds a crozier (bishop’s staff) in his left hand, a symbol of pastoral authority, and raises his right hand in blessing.
The blue damask background with stylized floral motifs and architectural canopy above him are typical of high-quality French glasswork of the period, inspired by courtly tapestries and illuminated manuscripts.
The lower part of the image depicts the “Miracle of the Three Children”, one of the most famous legends of St. Nicholas. According to the story, Nicholas resurrected three children who had been murdered and placed in a barrel or tub, here represented as three small, naked figures emerging from a tub at his feet. This scene is an emblematic identifier, even illiterate parishioners would recognize him immediately through this miracle story.
The background features ornate Gothic architectural tracery and vibrant blue and green glasswork, typical of late medieval French stained glass. The combination of brilliant colour, fine linework, and sacred symbolism highlights St. Nicholas’s role as a protector of children and the innocent.
This window would have been commissioned either by a wealthy patron, a confraternity, or the monastic community itself to inspire piety and teach biblical and hagiographic lessons to the largely illiterate faithful. St. Nicholas was one of the most popular saints in medieval Europe, the protector of children, sailors, merchants, and travelers, making him a fitting subject for devotional imagery.
