Lifting of the Siege of Malta Besieged by the Ottoman General Mustapha, in September 1565 1843

Charles-Philippe Lariviere painted this scene of the Lifting of the Siege of Malta in September 1565, during a time of growing French colonial ambitions. The painting captures a moment of victory for the Knights of Malta, a Catholic military order, against the Ottoman forces. Lariviere focuses on the triumphant display of power and religious fervor. Yet, if we look closely, we see that along with the knights and clergy, there is a Black figure amidst the fallen bodies. The inclusion of this figure raises questions about the diverse identities and roles of people who were involved in these historical events. While the painting celebrates a military victory, it also hints at the complex dynamics of power, race, and religion that defined this era. It invites us to consider whose stories are being told, and whose are being left out. What were the experiences of the diverse groups that were caught up in the clash between empires? The emotional intensity of the scene – from the violence of war to the jubilation of victory – prompts us to reflect on the human cost of conflict, and the stories that lie beneath the surface of historical narratives.