Banksy artwork preserved in London Transport Museum

The piece, which depicts a rat hanging from a clock arm, first appeared on a Transport for London (TfL) signal controller cabinet door in Croydon in October 2019.

It was discovered in front of Banksy’s pop-up showroom installation, Gross Domestic Product, and even featured in a video posted by Banksy on Instagram that same month.

To ensure the artwork’s preservation and prevent theft or damage, TfL removed the door of the signal controller cabinet, which housed the technology for nearby traffic lights and tram signals.

The door has now been acquired by the London Transport Museum.

The museum has mounted the door onto an identical cabinet body to recreate the original context of the artwork.

It is now part of the museum’s collection for preservation and display.

Elizabeth McKay, director and CEO of London Transport Museum, said: “Banksy’s work always sparks a reaction – whether it’s funny, political, or makes you think – and people really connect with it.

“Banksy’s art is part of the city’s story, loved by Londoners and visitors alike.

“Whilst this artwork could not remain in its original location, it’s fantastic to display it here in the museum for visitors to enjoy it up close.”

The museum, which has more than 2,500 original artworks and 34,000 transport posters created by different artists and designers, has made its first acquisition of a contemporary street artwork by Banksy, a globally recognised artist.

As a recipient of Arts Council England funding, part of the London Transport Museum’s role is to document London and its transport’s contemporary story, preserving history as it is created for future generations.

Other recent contemporary acquisitions include a London Pride figurehead gown and accessories, South Asian Heritage Month posters highlighting TfL’s workforce, TfL Covid-19 signage, and new seat designs for the New Tube for London, Central line, Victoria line, and New Routemaster.

Visitors to the museum can also enjoy live classical and jazz performances by emerging London musicians and theatre productions in the Cubic Theatre, including Transport Explorers: A Live Show, an interactive experience for families.

A new series of TfL travel posters by award-winning artist Eliza Southwood, celebrating four of London’s top cultural attractions, are on display across the Underground network this year.

Adult tickets to visit London Transport Museum in Covent Garden include free return daytime entry for a whole year, and kids get in for free.