A226L The suppression of Jacquerie in Mo and the release of Count de Foix by Gaston Phoebe of the Duchess of Normandy and Orleans Froissart’s Chronicles

The illumination presents a scene of apparent conflict unfolding within a fortified urban setting. A substantial castle dominates the background, its towers and crenellations rising above a densely populated townscape rendered in muted tones. The composition is framed by elaborate foliate borders, executed in vibrant greens, reds, blues, and golds, which serve to both contain and visually elevate the central narrative.
Here we see a chaotic melee taking place near what appears to be a moat or river. Figures clad in armor engage in combat; some are mounted on horseback while others fight on foot. The artist has depicted a sense of urgency and violence through the dynamic poses of the figures and the implied movement within the scene. Several bodies lie prone, suggesting casualties from the conflict. A central figure, seemingly a noble or leader, is being escorted by armed guards, indicating either capture or release.
The surrounding text provides contextual clues to the depicted event, referencing battles, nobility, and political maneuvering. The presence of French heraldic symbols – a golden fleece – suggests a connection to the French aristocracy. The script itself, rendered in Gothic minuscule, is meticulously integrated into the design, acting as both narrative accompaniment and decorative element.
Beyond the immediate depiction of battle, subtexts relating to power dynamics and social order emerge. The contrast between the fortified castle representing authority and the vulnerable figures engaged in conflict highlights the precariousness of life during this period. The release or escort of a noble figure implies themes of negotiation, ransom, or political expediency. The overall impression is one of a complex historical moment, where military action intersects with aristocratic privilege and political intrigue. The meticulous detail afforded to the heraldry and architecture suggests an intention to convey not only the event itself but also its significance within a broader social and political context.