Archive note: This article was originally published by Amber Dragons on 5 September 2024 and has been restored following the 2026 website rebuild.
Exploring the Artistry of Christine’s Stained Glass Commission: Koi Carp and Seahorses
Christine Saunders of Amber Dragons created this detailed stained glass commission featuring a vibrant Koi Carp alongside a graceful pair of seahorses. The finished artwork reflects the beauty and movement of an aquatic setting while demonstrating the bespoke craftsmanship for which Christine’s work is known.
The Inspiration Behind the Work
The commission was inspired by the client’s love of marine life and their wish for a unique artwork that captured the character of the underwater world in stained glass. Koi Carp are often associated with perseverance, strength and good fortune, while seahorses bring a quieter sense of tranquillity and grace.
Christine collaborated closely with the client so the composition, colours and atmosphere reflected their original idea. The result brought these different aquatic subjects together in one harmonious design.
Artistic Craftsmanship
Each element required careful planning, from the initial composition and glass selection to the accurate cutting and assembly of the individual pieces. Orange and gold tones give the Koi Carp warmth and presence, contrasting with the cooler blues and greens used throughout the surrounding water and seahorse details.
Glass texture was an important part of the design. Rippled and streaked glass helped suggest water, movement and changing light. As daylight passes through the panel, the textures and colour variations create a sense of depth and make the aquatic scene feel alive.
Technical Challenges and Innovations
A central challenge was retaining the fluid, organic shapes of the fish and seahorses while giving the panel the structural strength it needed. Christine used the lead came technique to support the composition and define the contours of the individual subjects.
The dark structural lines do more than hold the glass securely. They also contribute to the drawing of the piece, helping the eye follow the movement of the Koi Carp, the seahorses and the surrounding marine forms.
Layering and carefully chosen glass effects add further depth. Where colours meet or overlap visually, they produce subtle changes in hue and help give the finished scene a more dimensional quality.
Installation and Display
The panel was designed as a focal point in the client’s home, positioned where natural light could enhance its colours and details at different times of day. The display arrangement was considered carefully so the artwork could be mounted securely while allowing light to remain an active part of the design.
This is one of the special qualities of stained glass: the artwork changes continually according to the direction and strength of the light around it.
The Client’s Reaction
The completed commission was received with great enthusiasm. The client appreciated both the beauty of the artwork and the personal details that made the design uniquely theirs. The combination of Koi Carp and seahorses translated their love of marine life into an original piece of handmade stained glass.
Commission Work for the UK and Europe
This Koi Carp and Seahorses commission demonstrates what can be achieved when client inspiration and artistic experience are brought together. The panel adds colour and character to the home while preserving a personal story in glass.
Christine continues to develop original stained glass commissions from her Somerset studio, transforming wildlife, pets, landscapes, fantasy subjects and personal ideas into artworks made to be enjoyed for many years.
If this aquatic commission inspires an idea of your own, explore the latest stained glass works and bespoke commissions, learn more about Christine Saunders, or contact Amber Dragons to discuss your project.
