Clash stage backdrop by graffiti artist Futura 2000 at $47,000

An emblematic stage backdrop made for the Clash by NY graffiti artist Futura 2000 is among the highlights of Bonhams' Entertainment Memorabilia auction on December 10 in London.

Clash stage backdrop
Futura 2000's early works are rarely seen at auction, as many were painted on subway trains or painted over



The huge 34 ?�-foot banner was made for the band's October 1981 gig at the Lyceum Ballroom in London, and was actually created on stage while the band performed. It is valued at ?�25,000-35,000 ($39,000-47,000).

Futura 2000 is a big name in graffiti as one of the pioneers of the early New York scene. He first met the Clash in 1981 and became part of their Radio Clash tour, performing his rap The Escapades of Futura 2000 on stage.

The backdrop was created during a weeklong residency at the Lyceum Ballroom, with Futura 2000 climbing up and down ladders while the Clash performed. He also designed the poster for the gigs, which generally sell for around $2,000.

The sale also features Keith Moon's drumkit, which was given by him to Chris Sherwin, a friend and fellow drummer who helped Moon sign an endorsement deal with Premier drums. Valued at ?�15,000-20,000 ($23,000-31,000), it was used in 1964-1965, during the days of the Who's first gigs.

Movie memorabilia includes an AR-2 Flame Thrower prop made for Sigourney Weaver in Alien Resurrection.

It's a great prop from one of the most iconic film series ever made, yet Alien Resurrection is one of the least popular of the group, warranting a modest ?�4,000-6,000 ($6,300-9,400) estimate.

See our fantastic range of music and movie memorabilia for sale at Paul Fraser Collectibles.


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