Final answer:
The technology that allowed for the expansive stained-glass windows in Gothic cathedrals was the flying buttress, which redistributed the structural load and enabled larger window spaces. This, along with advancements in stained-glass making, allowed for the creation of intricate and symbolic windows such as the rose window from Chartres Cathedral.
Step-by-step explanation:
Technology Behind Stained-Glass Windows in Gothic Cathedrals
The expansive stained-glass windows that adorn Gothic cathedrals were made possible by a revolutionary architectural innovation known as the flying buttress. These external supports transferred the weight of the roof and walls away from the building, reducing the need for thick walls and allowing for larger window spaces. The flying buttresses enabled walls to be pierced with grand windows which were filled with beautiful stained glass. Artists crafted these windows by setting small pieces of colored glass into lead strips, an approach that was labor-intensive but resulted in stunning visual narratives. Thus, the technological advancement of flying buttresses, along with advancement in the techniques of creating stained glass, allowed Gothic cathedrals to be adorned with intricate and symbolic designs that were illuminated by natural light, embodying the divine.
Famous examples of these windows include the rose window from Chartres Cathedral, a masterpiece of the Gothic era. This integration of technology and artistry created not just an architectural wonder but also served as an educational and spiritual tool, teaching biblical stories and symbolizing the divine presence through light.