Heavy Weaponry
Heavy Weaponry
Mixed Media
Banksy
Price data unavailable
AAGR (5 years) This estimate blends recent public auction records with our own private sale data and network demand.
There aren't enough data points on this work for a comprehensive result. Please speak to a specialist by making an enquiry.
Medium: Mixed Media
Edition size: 10
Year: 2000
Size: H 61cm x W 61cm
Signed: No
Format: Mixed Media
Track this artwork in realtime
Watch artwork, manage valuations, track your portfolio and return against your collection
Track auction value trend
Auction Results
| Auction Date | Auction House | Location | Hammer Price | Return to Seller | Buyer Paid |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| October 2020 | Bonhams New Bond Street | United Kingdom | |||
| October 2007 | Bonhams Knightsbridge | United Kingdom |
Meaning & Analysis
Heavy Weaponry was made by contemporary British artist Banksy in 2000 and comes in an edition size of 10. The black spray paint and emulsion on canvas the print depicts an elephant rendered in Banksy’s recognisable stencil style with a rocket strapped to its back. The image is set against a green backdrop. The elephant dominates the centre of the composition and is captured strolling across the print.
The work’s witty title captures Banksy’s humour and the way satire permeates his works. Banksy often uses humour in his artworks to explore serious issues such as modern warfare, capitalism and poverty in an accessible way. Heavy Weaponry is defined by its minimalist style and iconic tone. The image of the elephant bearing a rocket on its back can be interpreted in various ways. The primary message of the print is anti-military, in line with Banksy’s other works using similar imagery.
The use of an elephant as an anti-war symbol resonates with other famous Banksy works featuring various animals that represent ordinary people or the ‘masses’ and their interactions with the establishment, such as Laugh Now which depicts a sombre monkey.
