B085R Revenge for the death of Roger Otriv to the inhabitants of Ghent (beating Ghent merchants at the gates of Oudenarde) Froissart’s Chronicles

The illumination presents a scene of apparent conflict unfolding before a fortified city gate. A substantial body of armed men, clad in varying shades of armor and bearing lances and swords, are positioned on land, seemingly engaged with individuals aboard a boat traversing a river or canal. The composition is divided into distinct zones: the foreground dominated by the assembled soldiers, the middle ground occupied by the vessel, and the background featuring the imposing city walls and surrounding landscape.
The men on land appear to be enacting some form of retribution; several are depicted striking at those within the boat with weapons. The individuals in the boat, identifiable as merchants based on their attire, seem to be caught off guard or attempting a defensive posture. Their expressions suggest distress and vulnerability. A sense of chaos pervades the scene, amplified by the dynamic poses of the figures and the implied violence of the interaction.
The city gate itself is rendered with considerable detail, showcasing architectural elements characteristic of medieval fortifications. The surrounding landscape, though somewhat stylized, provides a backdrop that suggests a rural setting adjacent to an urban center. A small figure on horseback appears in the lower left corner, seemingly observing the events unfolding.
Beyond the immediate depiction of violence, several subtexts emerge from this visual narrative. The presence of the fortified city implies a power dynamic at play – perhaps a siege or punitive action against those within. The targeting of merchants suggests an economic motive underlying the conflict; their wealth and trade connections likely made them vulnerable targets. The overall impression is one of societal unrest and retribution, hinting at deeper political tensions and grievances.
The elaborate border surrounding the central scene contributes to the works aesthetic richness. It incorporates a variety of floral motifs and heraldic symbols, adding layers of visual complexity and potentially alluding to the identities or allegiances of those involved in the depicted events. The text accompanying the image further contextualizes the narrative, providing additional details about the circumstances surrounding this confrontation.