A few years back, Behomoth frontman Adam “Nergal” Darski was in a Polish court for tearing out pages of the bible during the band’s theatrical show. The 2011 case was dismissed, with the frontman calling his actions an “artistic metaphor.” The Polish authorities aren’t done with him, however. Back in October, an investigation was launched over the above merch design. While it looks like a typical metal shirt to us, Poland seemed to think that it was mocking the national coat of arms of Poland. While there are certainly similarities, it doesn’t, at least to our eyes, look like a mockery or a direct rip-off.
However, according to wyborcza.pl, Darski, the shirt’s designer Rafal Wechterowicz and another person have been officially charged with the offense, meaning the case will now go to court. If convicted, they be fined and essentially put on probation for up to a year. Nergal has commented:
“Well… this is the first thing that hit’s me after coming back from a relaxing and sunny holiday trip. Me and 2 other dudes r accused of profaning Polish emblem. What a bummer! PIS-driven Poland is trying its best to nail my ass down… as an example I guess. But first thing is: it is NOT a Polish emblem. Second… let’s leave those arguments for the court case which is to begin shortly…! Is their limits to their obscurity and blindness? Bring it on!🤜”
Below is Poland’s coat of arms. What are your thoughts?
[via theprp]
