C132R Siege of Roales by English troops in 1387 Froissart’s Chronicles

The composition depicts a military engagement centered around a fortified structure. A substantial castle dominates the background, its architecture suggesting a medieval European origin with multiple towers and crenellations. The sky is rendered in a uniform blue hue, providing a stark contrast to the activity unfolding below.
In the foreground, combatants are engaged in close-quarters fighting. Soldiers clad in armor, some wielding spears and others swords, clash amidst a field of green grass. A large, dark-blue shield bearing a prominent red cross serves as a focal point within the melee. The positioning of figures suggests an assault on the castle walls; ladders are visible being used to scale the fortifications. Several fallen bodies lie scattered across the ground, indicating casualties on both sides.
The artist employed a limited palette, primarily utilizing blues, greens, reds, and grays. This restricted color range contributes to a sense of formality and distance from the depicted events. The figures appear somewhat stylized, lacking in individualized features; they are presented more as archetypes than specific individuals.
A notable element is the depiction of siege weaponry – what appears to be a rudimentary cannon or catapult – positioned near the foreground edge. This suggests an attempt to breach the castle’s defenses through means beyond direct assault. The presence of this technology, even in its early form, hints at evolving warfare techniques during the period.
The overall impression is one of controlled chaos and relentless conflict. The scene conveys a sense of the brutality inherent in medieval warfare, while also highlighting the strategic importance of fortified structures and the technological advancements shaping military engagements. The composition’s formality and stylized figures suggest that it may be intended to document or commemorate an event rather than offer a purely realistic portrayal.