New Banksy Mural Depicts Judge Assaulting Protester in London

A striking mural by the elusive street artist Banksy has emerged on the walls of the Royal Courts of Justice in London, depicting a judge attacking an unarmed protester with a gavel. The artwork, which surfaced on the morning of October 30, 2023, shows the protester lying on the ground, bloodied and clutching a placard, while the judge, dressed in traditional attire, raises the gavel to strike.

This provocative piece was shared on Banksy’s Instagram account, accompanied by a simple caption: “Royal Courts Of Justice. London.” This method of posting serves as a signature confirmation of the artist’s work. Following its discovery, security personnel quickly covered the mural with black plastic sheets and erected metal barriers around it. Two officers were also stationed to guard the site, as authorities prepared for its imminent removal.

Authorities announced that the mural would be taken down due to the historical significance of the building, which has stood for 143 years. A spokesperson from HM Courts and Tribunals Service confirmed to Sky News that the removal would align with regulations governing listed buildings, which are protected under UK law. The spokesperson stated, “The Royal Courts of Justice is a listed building and HMCTS are obliged to maintain its original character.”

Banksy, who began his career in Bristol, has gained global recognition for his thought-provoking works that often critique political systems and social issues. His art has not only fetched millions at auction but has also attracted the attention of thieves and vandals. In a recent example of his political commentary, an inflatable boat carrying migrant figures was unveiled at the Glastonbury Festival last year. This display, attributed to Banksy, highlighted the ongoing crisis of migrants crossing the English Channel.

The UK’s Home Secretary described the inflatable boat as “vile and unacceptable,” to which Banksy responded, suggesting the reaction was exaggerated. He explained that the display referenced a real rescue boat he financed, known as MV Louise Michel, which was involved in operations to save unaccompanied migrant children in the Mediterranean. Last July, the boat was detained by Italian authorities after rescuing 37 individuals, including 17 minors.

The appearance of this new mural reinforces Banksy’s role as a controversial yet influential figure in contemporary art, using his platform to shine a light on pressing social issues. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how the public will react to both the mural and its subsequent removal.