Glasdelen

Glasdelen is a Dutch term used to describe the individual pieces of glass that together form a larger pane or glazed surface. In architecture and glassmaking, glasdelen are the separate panes that are held in place by supporting elements such as muntins (glazing bars) or mullions. The term can refer to window panes, glass walls, or panels in cabinets and display cases.

In traditional windows, glasdelen are the cut pieces of glass that are inserted into a sash. In contemporary glazing, the concept also applies to sections within insulating glass units, where internal spacers divide the air or gas-filled spaces between adjacent panes.

Common production methods involve cutting float glass to the required dimensions, with options such as tempered or laminated glass for safety. Stained glass or leaded glass panels use lead came or copper foil to create the divisions between glasdelen, while modern applications often use mechanical muntins or frame members.

Historically, glasdelen arose from limitations in producing large glass sheets; as manufacturing advanced, pane sizes increased and the number of sections could be reduced, influencing window aesthetics and energy performance.

See also: muntin, mullion, glazing, stained glass, glass art.