Art attack: Banksy work to be removed from court

The new Banksy artwork showing a judge beating a protester will be removed from the Royal Courts of Justice, HM Courts and Tribunals have said.

- LAURA HARDING

The latest work by the elusive street artist appeared on an external wall of the Queen's Building, part of the Royal Courts of Justice complex, yesterday and has been concealed by large sheets of black plastic and two metal barriers.

It depicts a protester lying on the ground holding a blood-spattered placard, while the judge, in a wig and gown, looms over him wielding a gavel. It will be removed in accordance with rules regarding listed buildings.

An HM Courts and Tribunals spokesperson said: “The Royal Courts of Justice is a listed building and HMCTS are obliged to maintain its original character.”

The National Heritage List for England is a register of the country's most significant historic buildings and sites, and these structures are protected by law.

The artist confirmed he is responsible for the work with a post on Instagram, showing the graffiti before it was covered over.

Banksy, whose identity is the source of constant speculation, captioned the pictures: “Royal Courts Of Justice. London.”

The artwork is being guarded by security officials outside the building and sits underneath a CCTV camera.