Legal row could finally force mystery artist Banksy to reveal his real name
Two art collectors are suing the elusive street artist Banksy's company, Pest Control, for failing to verify the authenticity of a work known as "Monkey Queen." Banksy, whose true identity remains undisclosed, could be compelled to reveal his legal name through these legal proceedings.
The collectors, Nicky Katz and Ray Howse, have accused Pest Control of breach of contract after unsuccessfully seeking validation for three years for the artwork, which they purchased for £30,000. Pest Control is known to issue certificates verifying Banksy's artwork, which are essential for sale and valuation purposes.
Banksy, who famously shredded his own artwork "Love is in the Bin" at auction, is represented by Pest Control, founded to prevent the sale of counterfeit prints. Speculations about his true identity have included Robin Gunningham, who has denied the claim.
Katz is frustrated by the lack of response from Pest Control, especially given the artwork's estimated value between £55,000 and £70,000. The suit claims that the company has not fulfilled its service despite accepting a fee for authentication.
Art specialist John Brandler believes the piece is a genuine Banksy but criticizes the process as market manipulation, stating that authentication should not be dependent on the artist's whims.
Pest Control has defended its authentication practices as thorough, noting it has issued thousands of certificates of authenticity. However, the lack of verification for "Monkey Queen" has led to a legal battle that threatens to pierce Banksy's anonymity and raise questions regarding the control of artwork validation in the art market.
Banksy, who famously shredded his own artwork "Love is in the Bin" at auction, is represented by Pest Control, founded to prevent the sale of counterfeit prints. Speculations about his true identity have included Robin Gunningham, who has denied the claim.
Katz is frustrated by the lack of response from Pest Control, especially given the artwork's estimated value between £55,000 and £70,000. The suit claims that the company has not fulfilled its service despite accepting a fee for authentication.
Art specialist John Brandler believes the piece is a genuine Banksy but criticizes the process as market manipulation, stating that authentication should not be dependent on the artist's whims.
Pest Control has defended its authentication practices as thorough, noting it has issued thousands of certificates of authenticity. However, the lack of verification for "Monkey Queen" has led to a legal battle that threatens to pierce Banksy's anonymity and raise questions regarding the control of artwork validation in the art market.