Banksy Statue in London Sparks Debate

Authorities in the British capital have welcomed a new work by the street artist Banksy depicting a man blinded by a flag, and have no plans to remove it. The sculpture appeared near The Mall in the ceremonial heart of the city.

The work shows a suited figure whose face is covered by a billowing flag, one leg raised over the edge of the pedestal as though the man is about to topple. According to a video posted on Instagram, it was installed using a trailer.

The piece appeared in an area known for royal palaces and historic monuments. Its style echoes that of nearby statues, including an equestrian figure of King Edward VII and memorials to Florence Nightingale and Sidney Herbert.

Social media commentators have interpreted the work as a critique of blind patriotism and debated how the artist managed to install it in such a prominent location.

Westminster City Council described the sculpture as a "striking addition to the city's vibrant public art scene" and has taken steps to protect it. The work remains accessible to the public.

Banksy, whose identity has been linked to Robin Gunningham, began his career in Bristol in the 1990s and is now considered a significant figure in contemporary art.

(reuters, bak)