The bulletproof vest featuring the Union Jack, designed by street artist Banksy and worn by Stormzy during his iconic performance at Glastonbury in 2019, is set to be auctioned this month. This now-iconic vest highlights social and political unrest in the UK, particularly the rise in knife crimes.

Historic and provocative piece

Created by Banksy, this vest is part of his “Gross Domestic Product” collection, first displayed in Croydon in 2019 to critique the commercialization of his work. In 2020, the vest was nominated for the Beazley Design of the Year award and was later donated to the Design Museum in London by Stormzy.

Photos: Sotheby’s/Getty Images/DR

A coveted collectible

One of only five, this vest will be showcased during Frieze Week before being auctioned at Sotheby’s contemporary art sale. Estimated at €360,000, it will be on display at Sotheby’s New Bond Street galleries from October 3 to 9. Emma Baker from Sotheby’s described the piece as “Banksy at his best.”

A powerful message

Banksy designed this vest to address complex social issues through a powerful object. Using the Union Jack, it symbolizes experiences of racism and violence, as well as the endemic rise in knife crimes in contemporary Britain. This vest remains highly relevant today, symbolizing a defining cultural moment.

Photos: Sotheby’s/Getty Images/DR