Street artist Banksy’s latest mural was swiftly removed from the Royal Courts of Justice in London after his work appeared on the building Monday. The image of a judge striking a protester with a gavel has sparked worldwide attention and speculation about whether the anonymous artist’s identity could be revealed if charges are pressed.
After the mural appeared on the 143-year-old Royal Courts of Justice, HM Courts & Tribunals Service said the building’s protected status requires it to maintain its original character, prompting a swift removal, according to The Associated Press.
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Before the artwork was scrubbed away, it was covered by two security guards and monitored by a camera.
Banksy, who has more than 13 million followers on Instagram, later posted a photo of the mural online with a simple caption: “Royal Courts of Justice, London.”
People online are speculating in his comments about how the mural was created and whether Banksy had inside help.
Some point to Banksy’s office, Pest Control, which handles authentication of his work. The site’s FAQ page states, “If you’re thinking of writing in because you have privileged access to a secure facility that needs vandalising — please do.”
One Instagram user, @s.platted, commented under Banksy’s post: “I’m guessing someone who was patrolling or had access to the area messaged him with the windows of opportunity.”
Political timing
The artwork came one day after police reportedly arrested more than 800 people during a pro-Palestinian demonstration in London.
In July, the United Kingdom designated the activist group Palestine Action under the Terrorism Act. Anyone displaying clothing, symbols or items suggesting they belong to the group can face fines, prison time or both.
Police investigation
It remains unclear whether Banksy will face charges. The BBC reported the mural was officially recorded as criminal damage, and the Metropolitan Police said inquiries are ongoing. If the case moves forward, it could force Banksy’s identity into the open.
Banksy’s art often blends politics with provocation. Over the years, many of his pieces have been removed — sometimes for controversy, other times to be sold at auction.
In 2020, Banksy created a mural called “If You Don’t Mask, You Don’t Get” which featured a sneezing rat on a London Underground train. It was removed due to their anti-graffiti policy.
His most expensive work, “Love Is in the Bin,” stunned the art world in 2018 when it shredded itself immediately after selling at Sotheby’s. The piece later resold for about $23.7 million in 2021.
