Rather than creating another historiography of the Sino-French War, this unique work turns its narrative lens on the photographs and writings of one French officer serving in Taiwan during that war. Carapatteur not only pieces together the natural and cultural landscapes of contemporary Taiwan and the Pescadores (Penghu); it also sheds light on contemporary Western views of the Far East and reveals the textures of everyday life in late nineteenth-century Taiwan. While showing the perspective of photographer André Salles, these photographs also provide insights into his professional technique, talent, and interests as well as hint at the complexities underpinning the Western imperialist outlook, perspectives on the Sino-French War, and ideations on late-Qing Taiwan. Seeing oneself through another’s eyes is critical both to better self-understanding and to truly understanding history.