Dominique Papety – Guillaume de Clermont defends Ptolemais, 1291 Château de Versailles

The composition presents a scene of intense military conflict centered around a formidable stone fortification. The artist has arranged the elements to emphasize the chaotic nature of siege warfare and the desperate struggle for control. A substantial portion of the canvas is dominated by the imposing wall, rendered with meticulous detail that highlights its scale and defensive strength. Its surface is marred by damage – breaches, fallen stones, and signs of prolonged assault – suggesting a protracted engagement.
Here we see a multitude of figures engaged in combat. On one side, armored soldiers, identifiable by their heraldic banners displaying crosses on red fields, are actively scaling the wall using a wooden ladder. Their postures convey determination and aggression as they attempt to breach the defenses. The artist has depicted them with varying degrees of success; some are ascending purposefully, while others fall back, casualties of the defenders’ resistance.
The defenders themselves are positioned atop the wall and within a prominent tower, actively repelling the assault. They wield spears, swords, and other weaponry, their expressions conveying a mixture of resolve and grim determination. The positioning of these figures suggests a coordinated defense, though the sheer number of attackers implies an overwhelming force. Scattered across the base of the wall are fallen combatants – both attackers and defenders – their bodies contorted in positions indicative of death or severe injury. This accumulation of casualties underscores the brutality and high cost of warfare.
The color palette is largely muted, dominated by earth tones – browns, grays, and ochres – which contribute to a sense of grim realism. The sky above is overcast, adding to the overall atmosphere of tension and foreboding. A sliver of sea is visible in the distance, providing a limited visual escape from the immediate violence.
Subtly, the artist seems to explore themes of duty, sacrifice, and the futility of conflict. While the attackers are presented as aggressive and determined, their efforts appear almost doomed against the strength of the fortifications and the defenders’ resistance. The fallen bodies serve as a stark reminder of the human cost of such endeavors. The composition does not offer a clear moral judgment; instead, it presents a visceral depiction of battle, leaving the viewer to contemplate the complexities of warfare and its impact on individuals and societies.