In Toxic Mary, Banksy boldly places one of orthodox iconography's most significant symbols, the Virgin Mary and Child, at the heart of the narrative.The artwork delves into the complex relationship between mother and child, intertwining themes of religion, innocence, corruption, and authority. Religion, a recurring theme also explored in Christ with Shopping Bags, serves as a pillar of solace and a moral compass for many. Yet, Banksy challenges this conventional view by depicting the Madonna figure feeding Infant Christ from a bottle adorned with a skull and crossbones — a stark symbol of death and poison.
Throughout history, religion has been both a source of spiritual comfort and a catalyst for conflict and violence. Banksy's portrayal confronts this duality, questioning the darker implications of religious fervor and its potential for manipulation and harm.