Bedri Baykam

Danton Has Not Vainly Bled His Blood, 1985, mixed media on canvas, 150 x 210 cm

The relationship between Danton and Robespierre was a fascinating and contradictory alliance that left its mark on the French Revolution… First together, then apart…

After Danton opposed the continuation of the massacres, the Revolution set in motion its impulse to “devour its own children.” Under pressure from Robespierre, Danton was sentenced to death. As the execution took place in 1794, Robespierre, aware of his own guilt, watched the event in horror.

I made the painting in California in 1985. Through my Neo-Expressionist style, I wanted to convey that horror in its most direct form—both simple and allegorical…