BANKSY
Bird with Grenade, 2005
Spray paint and acrylic on canvas
30.3 x 30.4 cm (11 7/8 x 11 7/8 inches)
Unique in this format
Provenance
A gift from the artist to the present owner in 2005
Auction History
Phillips London: 16 April 2021
Estimated: GBP 50,000 – 70,000
GBP 327,600 / USD 453,145
Banksy – 20th Century & Contemporary … Lot 224 April 2021 | Phillips
Bird with Grenade depicts a cartoonish bird clutching a hand grenade, merging the symbols of peace and destruction. It stands as a poignant commentary on the juxtaposition of innocence and violence, a thought provoking trick often used by Banksy in his art. Banksy created several originals based on this visual.
It portrays a simplistic, almost childlike bird holding a grenade in its beak, rendered in Banksy’s signature stencil style. This technique, which Banksy adopted to expedite his work and maintain anonymity, involves creating images by spraying paint over pre-cut stencils. The stark contrast between the innocent bird and the menacing grenade creates a visual tension that is both unsettling and thought-provoking.
This series is a satirical take on the absurdity of war and violence. By combining a symbol of peace (the bird) with an instrument of destruction (the grenade), Banksy highlights the contradictions inherent in modern society’s approach to conflict. The use of humor in this juxtaposition serves to engage viewers, prompting them to reflect on the deeper message behind the imagery. It exemplifies Banksy’s ability to convey powerful messages through simple yet impactful visuals. The enduring relevance of this artwork lies in its capacity to challenge viewers’ perceptions and stimulate discourse on the complexities of peace and violence in contemporary society.
