Lavoisiers trial, 1794

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Lavoisiers trial, 1794

Lavoisiers trial. Historical artwork of the French chemist Antoine Laurent Lavoisier (1743-1794) being tried during the French Revolution by a radical, revolutionary tribunal. Lavoisier (standing, at left) was one of the leading French scientists and the father of modern chemistry. He was prosecuted because he had been a tax official, even though he had tried to introduce reforms. The president of the tribunal claimed that the Republic has no need of scientists. Lavoisier was guillotined on 8 May 1794

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Media ID 6308177

© SHEILA TERRY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

1700s 18th Century Antoine Lavoisier Chemist Colored Court Defending France French French Revolution History Of Science Legal Prisoner Revolutionary Scientist Soldier Soldiers Surname L Trial 1794 Condemned Court Room Death Sentence Judge Judges Laurent Radicals Reformers Revolutionaries Sentencing Tribunal

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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the dramatic trial of Antoine Laurent Lavoisier, a renowned French chemist and pioneer of modern chemistry. Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous French Revolution in 1794, Lavoisier finds himself standing at left, facing a radical and revolutionary tribunal that seeks to condemn him for his past role as a tax official. Despite his efforts to introduce reforms during his tenure, Lavoisier becomes entangled in the political turmoil gripping France. The president of the tribunal boldly declares that scientists are unnecessary for the Republic, further highlighting the volatile atmosphere surrounding intellectuals during this time. As we gaze upon this historical artwork, we witness Lavoisier defending himself with conviction and intellect while surrounded by soldiers and judges who hold his fate in their hands. The vibrant colors bring life to this poignant moment in history when science clashed with politics. Tragically, on May 8th, 1794, Lavoisier's destiny is sealed as he faces execution by guillotine. This image serves as a somber reminder of how even great minds can fall victim to ideological conflicts within society. Through this powerful illustration from Science Photo Library's collection, we are transported back to an era where scientific progress was overshadowed by political upheaval—a testament to both humanity's capacity for innovation and its susceptibility to irrationality.

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