Artwork believed to be by Banksy, one of the most controversial street artists in the world, has been revealed at Marble Arch. The artwork comes on the last day of a nearly two-week peaceful protest across central London by Extinction Rebellion. Marble Arch was the protesters’ central London base throughout their demonstration lasting 15 – 25 April.

Although Banksy, who remains anonymous, has not yet confirmed if he was behind the work, experts have inspected the piece and believe that its quality and style indicate it is authentic. The artwork adheres to the stencilled style and political nature Banksy is known for. It depicts a young child holding a small placard showcasing the Extinction Rebellion‘s logo. Next to the girl, the artwork reads “From this moment despair ends and tactics begin”. Westminster City Council has taken measures to preserve the artwork until it is confirmed.

This has led to speculation that Banksy was present at and supports the protests. The protesters stopped traffic for nearly two weeks at major central London destinations including Oxford Street, Piccadilly Circus, Parliament Square, Waterloo Bridge and Vauxhall Bridge. From 23 April, the Metropolitan Police asked activists to confine their demonstrations to Marble Arch, where the demonstrations ceased on the evening of Thursday 26 April.