In the heart of Winter Park, Florida, a hidden gem awaits those who appreciate art, history, and a touch of divine inspiration. The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art houses the stunning Tiffany Chapel, a remarkable collection of ecclesiastical art created by the renowned Louis Comfort Tiffany. This exquisite chapel is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a piece of history that tells a story of creativity, faith, and resilience.
Originally designed for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago, the Tiffany Chapel was intended as a showcase of Tiffany’s extraordinary craftsmanship. While it may not be a consecrated chapel in the traditional sense, its beauty and intricate details offer a glimpse into the spiritual artistry of the late 19th century. Visitors to the museum can marvel at the high altar, baptismal font, and an array of stained glass windows that reflect Tiffany’s mastery of color and light.
Tiffany, who is perhaps best known for his stained glass, was a pioneer in the decorative arts. His father, Charles Lewis Tiffany, famously founded Tiffany & Co., which today is synonymous with luxury jewelry. However, Louis’s legacy lies in his innovative approach to glasswork and design, which left an indelible mark on American art.
Once the exposition concluded, the chapel was purchased by a wealthy patron for a staggering $50,000—an equivalent of millions today. It was intended for the unfinished Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City, a grand project that has yet to be completed. After the cathedral’s architectural direction shifted, Tiffany reclaimed his chapel and installed it at his estate, Laurelton Hall, where it remained until a devastating fire in the 1950s.
Fortunately, the story doesn’t end there. Hugh and Jeannette McKean, passionate art collectors, salvaged what they could from the ruins. They transported the remnants to Winter Park, where they established the Morse Museum. Over the years, the McKeans acquired additional elements from the chapel and undertook a meticulous restoration process. After two years of conservation efforts, the Tiffany Chapel opened to the public in 1999, much to the delight of art lovers and spiritual seekers alike.
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the chapel’s opening, and the museum is celebrating with a special exhibit featuring “Fathers of the Church,” a stunning mosaic created by Tiffany for the 1893 exposition. This exquisite piece, adorned with gold glass, depicts Saints John Chrysostom, Augustine, and Ambrose, and it will be displayed alongside the chapel for the first time since its original unveiling.
For those planning a visit, the Morse Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., with extended hours until 8 p.m. on Fridays. Admission is modest, making it an accessible outing for families and individuals alike. The museum is located in the charming city of Winter Park, which offers a delightful alternative to the bustling theme parks of nearby Orlando.
Visitors to the museum will also find themselves in close proximity to several notable churches, including All Saints Episcopal Church, a prime example of 1940s Gothic revival architecture, and the neoclassical First Congregational Church. Don’t miss the Mediterranean revival-style Knowles Memorial Chapel at Rollins College, another architectural gem designed by Ralph Adams Cram, who played a significant role in the evolution of St. John the Divine’s design.
The Tiffany Chapel stands as a remarkable intersection of faith and artistry, inviting all who enter to reflect on the beauty of creation and the enduring power of spiritual expression. Whether you’re an art aficionado or simply seeking inspiration, the Morse Museum and its crown jewel, the Tiffany Chapel, promise a memorable experience that resonates with the heart and soul.
For more information about the Morse Museum and its exhibits, visit the official Morse Museum website. And if you’re curious about the history of stained glass and its impact on church architecture, check out this insightful article from Christianity Today.