TWO rare and historically significant early works by Bansky are being sold at auction later this month.
Eastbourne Auctions – which is handling the sale – said the pieces were created in 2003 and distributed during the Anti-Iraq War March.
They date from an early period in Banksy’s career before his work became widely recognised in the commercial art market.
Bomb Hugger (2003) Spray paint on cardboard
Estimate: £2,000–£3,000
Bomb Hugger is one of Banksy’s most recognisable anti-war images: a child embracing a missile as if it were a teddy bear.
The work employs a juxtaposition of imagery that is characteristic of Banksy’s early anti-war output.
Yellow Chopper – “Wrong War” (2003) Spray paint stencil on cardboard
Estimate: £2,000–£3,000
Bold and confrontational, Yellow Chopper (Wrong War) features a military helicopter rendered in Banksy’s instantly recognisable stencil style, paired with an unambiguous political message.
Lady Jeannete May from Eastbourne Auctions said: “We are incredibly excited to have discovered these two works from Banksy.
“He is, of course, well known for his works but these two go back to a very early part of his fascinating career.
“We are anticipating a high level of interest when it comes to action next week.”
You can bid online for a rare chance to acquire these inspiring pieces created at the very heart of Banksy’s activist origins on Thursday 26th February @ 9.30am sharp.
In November 2023, Eastbourne Auctions sold a book which was signed by Banksy for £3,400 at auction after it was bought in a charity shop.
The book, titled Wall and Piece, was purchased for £3 at a shop in Eastbourne.
