Massacre at Tiflis City Council Building, October 15, 1905 1905

Achille Beltrame created this powerful image of the "Massacre at Tiflis City Council Building, October 15, 1905" using ink and watercolor. It's not a traditional history painting rendered in oil, but rather an illustration, likely made for publication in a newspaper or magazine. The material choice speaks volumes. Unlike the perceived permanence and prestige of oil, the immediacy of ink and watercolor lends itself to quick production and distribution, mirroring the urgency of news reporting. Beltrame's skillful application of washes creates depth and movement, drawing us into the chaos. The image reflects a specific moment in time, using materiality to convey the realities of labor, politics, and consumption. This artwork shows the artist's intention in challenging traditional distinctions between fine art and craft. By depicting a massacre with common materials, the artist wanted to show the urgency of this social matter. It is not just about making, but about making a statement.