Vuurwerk in Moskou bij de viering van het einde van de Russisch-Turkse Oorlog, 1775 (Acte III) 1775

Emel'ian Alekseevič Fedoseev created this print in 1775 to commemorate the end of the Russo-Turkish War. This war was a significant expansion of the Russian Empire into contested territories. Here we see a depiction of the fireworks in Moscow, however, it is also a carefully constructed display of power and imperial ambition. The architecture in the print speaks to the calculated grandeur of the Russian court under Catherine the Great. Yet, we might also consider who is missing. Where are the Turkish voices, perspectives, or even depictions of the war's impact on their communities? Fedoseev offers a one-sided narrative, a triumphant spectacle, masking the complexities and human costs of conflict. As you consider this image, think about whose stories are elevated in moments of celebration, and whose are silenced.