D043L Tournament in Saint-Inglever in 1390 Froissart’s Chronicles

The composition depicts a dynamic scene centered around what appears to be a sporting event – likely a form of equestrian jousting or tournament. A group of mounted figures, clad in full plate armor and riding white horses, are engaged in spirited action across a grassy field. The central focus lies on two knights locked in a close encounter; their lances poised for impact, suggesting an imminent collision.
The artist has arranged the scene with deliberate spatial organization. Behind the immediate action, a raised platform or pavilion is visible, draped in rich fabrics displaying heraldic symbols – likely representing the nobility overseeing the event. Several figures are positioned on this elevated structure: one appears to be gesturing animatedly, perhaps signaling the start of the contest, while another holds what seems to be a long horn or trumpet, likely used for announcing the proceedings.
A ground-level figure, dressed in simpler attire and wielding a mallet or similar tool, is actively involved in the scene. He’s positioned lower than the knights, seemingly interacting with the horses or perhaps retrieving a dropped lance – his posture conveys an energetic involvement in the spectacle. The other figures on horseback are arranged around the central action, some appearing to be participants while others seem to be spectators.
The color palette is vibrant and characteristic of medieval illumination; deep blues, reds, and greens contrast with the white of the horses and the silver sheen of the armor. This contributes to a sense of visual drama and emphasizes the importance of the event being portrayed. The background landscape – a simplified depiction of trees and rolling hills – provides context without distracting from the central action.
Subtly embedded within this seemingly straightforward portrayal are elements that hint at social hierarchy and ritualistic display. The elaborate armor, heraldic banners, and elevated viewing platform all underscore the status and privilege associated with participation in such events. The figure on foot, despite his active role, is clearly positioned as subordinate to the mounted knights, reinforcing a visual representation of feudal societal structures. The scene conveys not only the excitement of the tournament but also the broader cultural context of aristocratic leisure and display within a hierarchical social order.