Monkey Queen, signed, 2003

Monkey Queen is a satirical work by Banksy that depicts a monkey adorned with the regalia of a monarch, set against a red, white, and blue background evocative of the Union Jack. Created to coincide with the Diamond Jubilee of Elizabeth II, marking 60 years of her reign, the print overlays a stark black-and-white stenciled monkey’s face onto the Queen’s iconic official portrait.

By replacing the monarch’s likeness with that of a primate, Banksy employs sharp satire to suggest a society governed by its evolutionary ancestors—an exaggerated yet pointed commentary on power, hierarchy, and leadership. The image raises questions about freedom of speech and expression while also challenging viewers to reflect on the nature and legitimacy of authority throughout history.

Monkey Queen was first publicly exhibited in a London youth club known as the Chill Out Zone. It later attracted controversy when authorities requested its removal from a front window display during the Golden Jubilee celebrations of Queen Elizabeth II, further amplifying the work’s provocative impact.