Light in Dark Times

The Museum Schnütgen presents an extraordinary exhibition of medieval stained glass from the Khanenko Museum in Kyiv, being shown outside Ukraine for the very first time. Around 30 works from the collections of both institutions, including twelve loaned pieces that comprise the entire stained glass collection of Kyiv's museum, come together in the Stained Glass Hall to create a unique dialogue. The artworks, crafted in glass workshops of France, Germany, Austria, and the Netherlands between the 13th and 17th centuries, are a testament to European craftsmanship and cultural diversity.

The exhibition goes beyond aesthetic experience: In the context of the Russian war of aggression that began in 2022, it symbolizes the preservation and protection of endangered cultural treasures. After a careful transport through the conflict zone, the fragile artworks were safely brought to Cologne, supported by the scholarly expertise of the Corpus Vitrearum Germany and the assistance of the Cologne Cathedral Workshop.

This project honors not only the significance of Ukrainian culture as part of Europe’s heritage but also sends a message of solidarity. Through the digital documentation of these works, a new foundation is being created for understanding and protecting this art form for future generations.