Vintage 1996 Mambo "Australian Jesus - Heaven and Hell" Tee
US$124.38 - sold
Unpacking one of the most iconic and highly debated designs in Australian streetwear history: "Australian Jesus - Heaven and Hell." 👼🔥
Created in 1996 by the legendary artist Reg Mombassa (signed under his real name Chris O'Doherty or Reg Mombassa), this triptych print for Mambo Graphics is an absolute masterclass in Y2K/90s satirical art.
Look closely at the copyright marking: © MAMBO GRAPHICS P/L IVMM. In classic Mambo fashion, "IVMM" is a non-standard play on Roman numerals, representing 1996 (2000 minus 4).
The graphic depicts a three-eyed Australian Jesus in a white suit, tie, and cape surrounded by flying household appliances like a toaster and a TV. The panel on the left shows Heaven (a peaceful suburban backyard with an angel pushing a lawnmower) while the right panel shows a chaotic Hell full of ghouls and devils.
From the iconic Mambo eye logo scroll on the chest to the epic storytelling on the back, this is "Peak Mambo" theological satire at its absolute best. 👁️🐕
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