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 serves as a multifaceted critique of consumerism and the commodification of nature. The barcode symbolizes the reduction of living beings to mere products, while the leopard’s escape signifies a rebellion against this dehumanizing system. Additionally, the unique patterns of both barcodes and leopard spots draw a parallel between individuality and the homogenizing force of capitalism. The barcode serves as a symbol of consumerism and capitalism. Indeed, it was introduced in the 1970’s to standardize consumer’s products, in order to make people purchase more in a faster and more efficient manner. The leopard is demonstrating the ability we all have to free ourselves from the power of consumerism.

Barcode Leopard, 2002

Sotheby’s New-York: 3 November 2018
Estimated: USD 300,000 – 400,000
PASSED

(#457) BANKSY | Barcode Leopard

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.

Barcode first appeared on the side of a house on Pembroke Road in Bristol. The stencil was quickly removed from the wall but reappeared a few years after on the occasion of an exhibit in Somerset.

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.

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Auction Results

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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

Bloomsbury Auctions London: 5 December 2013
Estimated: GBP 80,000 – 120,000

GBP 117,060 / USD 191,265

BANKSY
Barcode Leopard, 2002

Spray-paint and acrylic on canvas

84 x 91.5 cm (33×36 inches)

From a series, unique in this format

Stencil-signed “BANKSY” lower right

Banksy’s Barcode Leopard expected at $192,500 in UK auction

 Leopard and Barcode, 2002

Bonhams London: 29 March 2012
Estimated: GBP 60,000 – 80,000
GBP 75,650 / USD 99,195

Bonhams : Banksy (b. 1975) Leopard and Barcode

BANKSY
Leopard and Barcode, 2002

Stencil Spray-paint on canvas

43×51 cm (16 15/16 x 20 1/16 inches)

Edition of 5

Stencil-signed “BANKSY” on the overlap

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