A German sculptor has been sentenced in absentia by a Moscow court to eight and a half years in prison, escalating concerns over artistic freedom in Russia. Jacques Tilly, known for his satirical carnival floats, was convicted Thursday, April 2, of “insulting the feelings of believers” and spreading “fake” information about the Russian military, according to Deutsche Welle.
Judge Konstantin Ochirov also ordered Tilly to pay a fine equivalent to approximately 2,000 euros and banned him from practicing his profession for four years. Prosecutors had initially sought a nine-year sentence, a fine and a four-year professional ban.
The charges stem from Tilly’s work, particularly his satirical platforms often featured in the Düsseldorf “Rosenmontag” (Carnival Monday) parade. The prosecution presented witness testimony as evidence of his guilt, and accusations were leveled against the sculptor for allegedly insulting Russian President Vladimir Putin, reports indicate.
The sentencing comes amid a broader crackdown on dissent in Russia, and highlights the increasing risks faced by artists and those critical of the government. A YouTube post details the case, noting the sculpture depicted Putin and Patriarch Kirill engaged in a sexual act “in an unnatural form.”
Euronews reported on Facebook that the sentence was for a satirical depiction of the Russian president.
Meduza also reported that the court handed down the sentence due to carnival platforms depicting Putin and Patriarch Kirill.
Gazeta.press also covered the story, noting the Moscow court’s sentencing of the German artist for the carnival platforms featuring images of Putin.
