Entering the arena 1869

Fyodor Bronnikov created this painting depicting a scene from ancient Rome. At first glance it seems to be a depiction of Christian martyrs, however, Bronnikov positions himself differently. Born in the Russian Empire, where the Orthodox church was the establishment, he developed his art and beliefs in a place where one form of Christianity had power over others. The artist's choice to paint this scene could reflect personal beliefs and spiritual convictions but also could be read as a study of power relations. We are confronted with the stark reality of public execution as entertainment, where victims are rendered powerless in the face of the state. The figures dressed in white, on the left, appear to have their faces upturned, awaiting their fate. This creates a sense of impending doom and submission. Bronnikov invites us to reflect on the ways in which societies, both past and present, exercise power and control over marginalized groups. This painting invites us to consider the ways in which historical events continue to resonate in contemporary society.