Barcode Leopard is a compelling piece that encapsulates the artist’s signature blend of street art, social commentary, and dark humor. First appearing as a mural on a house in Pembroke Road, Bristol, this artwork has since been reproduced in various formats, including original canvases and limited-edition prints. The artwork portrays a leopard seemingly escaping from a cage formed by a barcode mounted on wheels. Executed in Banksy’s characteristic monochromatic stencil style, the piece employs spray paint and emulsion on canvas, emphasizing stark contrasts to deliver its message effectively.
Barcode Leopard, 2002
Estimated: USD 300,000 – 400,000
PASSED

BANKSY
Barcode Leopard, 2002
Spray paint and emulsion on canvas
60×85 cm (23 5/8 x 33 1/2 inches)
Stenciled with the artist’s name
Furthermore, another interpretation links the choice of the leopard and the barcode by their unique character. Just as all leopards have a unique pattern of spots, all barcodes have unique combinations too. The big cat embodies the diversity of form, whereas the notion of consumerism suggested through the image of the barcode evokes homogeneity.

Banksy’s use of irony is evident in the juxtaposition of a wild animal with a barcode cage, highlighting the absurdity of commodifying nature. This satirical approach invites viewers to reflect on the pervasive influence of consumer culture in a thought-provoking manner. In Barcode Leopard, Banksy masterfully combines visual simplicity with complex themes, creating a work that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Auction Results
Barcode Leopard, 2002
Bonhams London: 29 June 2016
Estimated: GBP 70,000 – 100,000
GBP 158,500 / USD 212,170
Bonhams : Banksy (British, born 1975) Barcode Leopard 2002
BANKSY
Barcode Leopard, 2002
Stencil spray-paint and emulsion on canvas
70×70 cm (27 9/16 x 27 9/16 inches)
From a series, unique in this format
Stencil-signed “BANKSY” on the turnover edge
Provenance
Private Collection, Germany (acquired directly from the artist in 2002)
Acquired directly from the above by the present owner in 2006
Barcode Leopard, 2002
Phillips London: 3 July 2014
Estimated: GBP 40,000 – 60,000
GBP 86,400 / USD 148,385
Banksy – Contemporary Day Sale London Lot 175 July 2014 | Phillips
BANKSY
Barcode Leopard, 2002
Spray paint and emulsion on canvas
64.8 x 81.3 cm (25.5 x 32 inches)
This work is from a varied series
Stenciled “BANKSY” lower left
Provenance
Private Collection
Barcode Leopard, 2002
Estimated: GBP 80,000 – 120,000
Barcode Leopard, 2002
Leopard and Barcode, 2002
Estimated: GBP 60,000 – 80,000
GBP 75,650 / USD 99,195
Leopard and Barcode, 2002
Further signed, dated, numbered /5, and inscribed “LA” on the reverse

Provenance
Existencilism, 33 1/3 Gallery, Los Angeles
Acquired directly from the above by the present owner in 2002
