Lovers of the great British comic book will be in for a treat this summer when the biggest exhibition of its kind takes place at the British Library.

Comics Unmasked: Art and Anarchy in the UK is the most comprehensive British comic exhibition ever to take place in the UK.

Among its exhibits are early Victorian comics, which have only recently been discovered, much-loved classics such as The Beano, Viz and Punch magazine, and the very latest British comics such as V for Vendetta.

Comics Unmasked traces the history of the British comic book and explores how comics and graphic novels have uncompromisingly addressed such subjects as violence, sexuality and drugs, breaking social boundaries with the innovative form that marries literature and visual art.

The exhibition particularly highlights the trend set internationally by British comic creators, whereby comics are used to subvert and challenge stereotypes.

It features original artwork and a video montage of comic artist and designer Jamie Hewlett’s most celebrated creations, Tank Girl and Gorillaz, alongside other examples of original British comic art.

Mr Hewlett said: “There is no national institution better than the British Library to showcase such an extensive collection of British comic art. I'm thrilled to be part of this exhibition, and to celebrate the history of British comics.”

Due to the explicit nature of some of the exhibits, the library has issued a parental guidance warning for under 16s.

Comics Unmasked: Art and Anarchy in the UK runs from May 2 until August 19 at the British Library in Euston Road, Camden. Entrance costs £9.50 for adults, 7.50 for seniors, £5 for concessions and is free for under-18s and Friends of the British Library.

Tickets can be booked online at http://www.bl.uk/whatson/exhibitions/comics-unmasked/index.html or by calling the British Library on 0843 208 1144.