John La Farge was an American artist, muralist, stained glass window designer, and writer known for his contributions to the American Renaissance and innovative decorative arts work. Born on March 31, 1835, in New York City, La Farge came from a wealthy, cultured family that encouraged his artistic pursuits.
La Farge initially studied law, but his passion for art led him to abandon his legal career and pursue artistic training. He traveled to Europe and studied in Paris under the academic painter Thomas Couture. He also spent time in Newport, Rhode Island, where he befriended other artists and intellectuals.
John La Farge explored various artistic mediums throughout his career, including painting, stained glass, and mural work. He gained recognition for his innovative use of color and light in stained glass windows, a field in which he became a prominent figure. La Farge's stained glass creations often incorporated opalescent glass, a material he developed in collaboration with glassmakers. His works include windows in notable locations such as Trinity Church in Boston and the Church of the Ascension in New York City.
In addition to his stained-glass art, La Farge was an accomplished painter who created landscapes and murals. His murals adorned various public buildings, including the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C., where he executed a series of figurative paintings in the North Corridor.
Apart from his artistic endeavors, La Farge was also an influential writer. He authored articles on art criticism and technique, and his book "Considerations on Painting" (1895) became a significant text.
John La Farge's artistic legacy played a pivotal role in American art and design development during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He passed away on November 14, 1910, in Providence, Rhode Island, leaving behind a rich body of work that continues to be celebrated for its beauty and innovation.