Rubbish to riches: Banksy art set for auction

WORKS BY ELUSIVE ARTIST ARE SAVED FROM BEING DISCARDED

- CHARLES HANSON

VERY so often, artworks arrive that not only carry cultural weight but also dramatic personal histories.

This summer, on June 13, Hansons Auctioneers will present three such pieces by the world’s most elusive street artist, Banksy — two of which were rescued from destruction and have since become significant markers in the evolution of contemporary art.

Among them is DJ on a Cloud (1999), a rare early work salvaged from the clearance of a shop in Bath, and Two Rats with Saw (2003), recovered in similarly precarious circumstances.

Both pieces were saved from being discarded entirely and now, after years of international exhibition, they return to public attention through this landmark sale.