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Iconic Banksy print fetches over £80,000 at US auction – Irvine Times

An original proof print of the iconic mural sold for $104,000 (£80,652), more than double the expected price.

The 2004 artists were offered to the public by Julien’s Auctions from the prized collection of the renowned artist’s longtime agent and photographer Steve Lazarides.

Under Duress: Steve Larrazidis Banksy Archive Auction
Bomb Hugger, by Banksy (PA/Julien’s Auctions)

The original painting of Banksy’s famous Hooded Figure sold for $78,000 (£60,496).

An original hand-cut stencil of Banksy’s name brought $58,000 (£44,984), while a series of the reclusive artist’s manila sketches, including conceptual designs for his Paparazzi Rat stencil, sold for $52,000 (£40,336).

Also included as part of the auction were 15 hotlines used by Lazarides to contact Banksy, an original brand of Puma ‘Turf War’ sneakers worn by the Bristol artist and original proof prints of many of his other works.

Darren Julien, co-founder and CEO of Julien’s Auctions, said: “This astonishing collection, assembled and lovingly preserved for over 25 years by his closest collaborator and partner, Steve Lazarides, offers an unprecedented insight into the history and journey of the man who would become the most famous and visionary artist in the world named Banksy.

Under Duress: Steve Larrazidis Banksy Archive Auction
Laugh Now by Banksy, which was announced for sale at Under Duress: The Banksy Archive of Steve Larazides (PA/Julien’s Auctions)

“Featuring many of Banksy’s earliest works, most recognizable works and personal effects, this auction is a historic opportunity for the next custodian to own the most comprehensive and definitive archive of Banksy’s legacy.”

Last month, a separate print of Balloon Girl was also stolen from the Grove Gallery in London before being recovered by police.

“Banks, myself and a few others started a company called Pictures On Walls and it was like we really wanted to make cheap, accessible art for the masses,” Lazarides said.

“In a very short moment, we made a difference, we made it so that ordinary people liked art… It’s definitely the proudest thing I’ve ever done. And definitely the strongest thing I think he’s ever done.

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