Project Year: 2025
Location: St. Hyacinth Basilica, Chicago, Illinois
In 2025, Baltic Art Studio completed the conservation and restoration of two historic stained glass windows created by the renowned German studio of Franz Xaver Zettler at St. Hyacinth Basilica in Chicago.
This large-scale ecclesiastical restoration addressed significant structural deterioration and required both detailed studio conservation work and complex onsite restoration. The project called for careful preservation of the historic glass, lead structure, painted details, and original artistic character of the windows.
The windows showed significant deterioration that required both conservation expertise and a close understanding of the basilica’s architectural construction.
Baltic Art Studio carefully assessed the condition of the stained glass, lead cames, support systems, and window assemblies. This early work helped identify the structural needs of each panel and guided the restoration plan.
The stained glass panels received detailed conservation treatment in the studio. Each section was carefully examined to determine the condition of the glass, painted details, lead structure, and previous repairs.
Original glass was preserved wherever possible. Damaged areas were stabilized, repaired, and treated with respect for the historic material and the original Zettler design.
The project included glass repair, structural stabilization, and releading where needed. Lead cames, the framework holding the individual glass pieces together, were repaired or replaced to restore the panels’ stability.
The work required careful attention to both the visual appearance and structural condition of the windows. Every repair was made to support the original design while preparing the stained glass for secure reinstallation.
Restoration work at St. Hyacinth Basilica required detailed planning and coordination. The windows were located at considerable height inside an active historic church environment.
Baltic Art Studio worked with contractors and construction professionals to coordinate specialized access equipment, installation requirements, and safe onsite working conditions. This process ensured the restored windows could be properly integrated into the basilica’s historic fabric.
The restoration preserved two important Franz Xaver Zettler stained glass windows for St. Hyacinth Basilica.
Through structural stabilization, glass repair, releading, conservation treatment, and careful onsite coordination, Baltic Art Studio helped protect these historic windows while preserving their artistic detail, color, and place within the church.
This project reflects Baltic Art Studio’s experience with complex ecclesiastical restorations requiring artistic craftsmanship, technical knowledge, construction awareness, and close collaboration across multiple teams.
