Pages: 277-288 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.55086/sp235277288 

The article examines the 19 th century engraving “View of the Battle of Causeni…” as a source. The engraving was first published at the beginning of the 19 th century in a book dedicated to the life of Count Platov. Based on the evidence base, it is shown that to do the engraving, the author used sketches made by an eyewitness. As evidence, arguments of both architectural and military nature are provided, and some items are also pointed out that could only be visible to an eyewitness. An analysis of the view of the city in the engraving is carried out. A cautious assumption is made about the presence of fortification around the Armenian monastery. Based on the deciphering of the signatures (made by V. Kashirny, candidate of historical sciences), the dating of the previously published plan and view of Căuşeni is being clarified. Some historians previously dated these plans to 1789. The article provides arguments in favor of the fact that they were created almost 20 years earlier. This allows us to understand that the Khan’s palace and the city were badly damaged not during the battles of 1789, but much earlier. A fragment of the battle plan and the city of 1789 is published for the first time. In conclusion, it is concluded that this engraving can well be considered as a historical source and requires further analysis and comparison with other sources.

Keywords: Basarabia, Moldova, Bugeac, Căuşeni, 18 th century, Armenian church, Tartars, engraving, Khan’s palace

Information about authors:

Serghei Daniliuc (Căuşeni, Moldova).
E-mail: [email protected]