Charger with the Battle of Roncevaux

Painted by Francesco Xanto Avelli

National Gallery of Art

This is a painting on a circular plate depicting a battle scene. Warriors clad in medieval armor and helmets engage in combat. The scene includes figures in action poses with swords and shields. In the background, a fortified city with flames and smoke rising from its towers suggests a siege or invasion. Bright colors and detailed ornamentation enhance the drama of the scene. This is in the style of an Italian Renaissance artist like Francesco Xanto Avelli, known for detailed maiolica ceramics depicting historical and mythological scenes.