Simon Cowell* has received a half million pound remake of a 19th century artwork as a Christmas gift, created for him by famous graffiti artist Banksy. The artwork is based on the painting Dance Class at the Opera by Edgar Degas – 1874.

Cowell received a commissioned work by Banksy - and the painting is a remake of Degas' The Rehearsal of the Ballet Onstage. Apparently, in this commission, Cowell has been painted in the scene as the ballet master.

* Simon Cowell is an English entrepreneur, recording executive, elevision producer and personality known for his pointed criticism of contestants on such shows as Pop Idol and its American spin-off, American Idol.