Toxic Mary — Unsigned

About This Work

In the evocative screenprint "Toxic Mary — Unsigned," Banksy applies his signature blend of irony and critique to a potent religious icon, transforming it into a work that elegantly challenges viewers to reconsider familiar narratives. Measuring 70 x 50 cm, this piece is rendered with remarkable precision and clarity on paper, a testament to Banksy’s mastery of the screenprint medium. It emerges from an edition of 600 unsigned prints, part of a broader release totaling 750, including 150 signed versions. This democratic approach to editioning reflects Banksy's commitment to accessible art—a hallmark of his broader practice. "Toxic Mary" is visually arresting, featuring the iconic figure of the Madonna nursing an infant from a bottle with a skull and crossbones, symbolizing danger and toxicity. This imagery resonates with Banksy's well-documented disdain for blind faith, prescriptive traditions, and, more broadly, societal norms that go unquestioned or unchallenged. His choice of symbolism in "Toxic Mary" can be seen as an extension of his relentless questioning of authority and traditions, themes that permeate much of his work. Through the juxtaposition of a revered maternal figure with the emblem of poison, Banksy comments on the potential for harm embedded within conventionally venerated institutions. Banksy, born around 1974 in Bristol, catapulted from the underground art scene to international prominence through his guerrilla street art. Known for his rapid stencil techniques developed in the streets with the DryBreadZ crew, Banksy's visual language communicates direct, poignant messages. His transition from street art to gallery work continues to blur the lines between these realms, challenging the status quo of the art world and its institutions. "Toxic Mary — Unsigned" sits comfortably within this narrative, as it echoes the subversive ethos seen in landmark pieces such as "The Mild Mild West," his irreverent public exhibitions like "Turf War" and "Dismaland," and other works that juxtapose familiar imagery with unsettling implications. By leveraging the medium of screenprint, Banksy ensures that his visual commentary can reach a broader audience, emphasizing repeatability and the power of art that is unconfined by its locale. "Toxic Mary — Unsigned" thus captures the essence of Banksy's dual commitment to artistic excellence and socio-political critique, serving as both a standalone work of art and a reflection of the larger cultural phenomena he thrives on provoking. In the Zebra One Gallery collection, "Toxic Mary — Unsigned" continues our tradition of presenting works that question and inspire, encapsulating contemporary social commentary within a striking visual frame.

About the Artist

Perhaps the most famous figure in street art working today, Banksy is known for urban interventions that demonstrate irreverent wit and a biting political edge. Enhancing his mystique by maintaining an anonymous identity, the artist has modified street signs, illegally printed his own currency, and ...

Zebra One Gallery

Contemporary Art • Hampstead, London

Established 1976 • 50 years of excellence in contemporary art • Professional authentication and provenance research