A new piece of graffiti in Hadleigh's town centre has proved thought-provoking.

A street art jester figure has appeared on an empty building at Bridge Street car par opposite the former Babergh headquarters in Corks Lane which is undergoing redevelopment.

The painting appears to be a depiction of the Jester in Jan Matejko's work 'Staczyk during a ball at the court of Queen Bona in the face of the loss of Smolensk.'

Stanczk's solemn moment during a lively ball with people around him continuing to have fun apparently oblivious to the damage being caused around them, appears to be a metaphor for today.

While the graffiti is not tagged (signed by a street artist) the obvious question from residents is: 'Could this be a Bansky' and 'What is the message'.

Among suggestions are it is a comment on Hadleigh's controversial town's council, which has been beleagured with claims of prejudice against Armed Forces personnel, cover ups, unlawful behaviour and other failings.

Or, could it be a message about the current Conservative government, which has tanked the economy and Liz Truss widely regarded as a joke?

Or, given the origin of Matejko's painting finished in 1862 at a time when Poland was economically, politically and culturally flying high, a subtle reminder about Putin's aggression in Ukraine, and how quickly things can change.

Send us your view, or caption, to the editor: [email protected]

Bridge Street before graffiti