Banksy signature seen on sculpture in London – here’s what to know

30 Apr 2026 • 11:31 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Banksy signature seen on sculpture in London – here’s what to know

  • A mysterious sculpture, depicting a suited man stepping off a plinth with his sight obscured by a flag, appeared in Waterloo Place, St James, central London on Wednesday, 29 April.
  • The artwork bears the signature of elusive street artist Banksy, but he has not yet claimed ownership of the piece on his official website, which is his usual practice.
  • Evidence suggesting it could be a Banksy includes his previous installation of a statue, 'The Drinker', on Shaftesbury Avenue in 2004, which was later stolen.
  • Banksy, known for his political artworks and anonymity, was reportedly 'unmasked' by Reuters earlier this year, though the alleged individual, Robin Gunningham, has denied being the artist.
  • His most recent confirmed works include a mural in Bayswater in December 2025 and another depicting a judge and protester on a Royal Courts of Justice building, which was swiftly covered up.

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