Maurizio Cattelan's 2019 creation, Comedian, which features a banana affixed to a wall with duct tape, was sold for US$5.2m at Sotheby's New York. This sale occurred during a contemporary art auction and surpassed the pre-sale estimates of US$1m to US$1.5m. The artwork, one of three editions, saw bids start at US$800,000 and rapidly exceed expectations amid a spirited auction that welcomed cryptocurrency offers. The auction, held at Sotheby's Upper East Side venue, attracted bids from attendees, phone, and online participants.
The piece was secured by Jen Hua, representing Chinese crypto entrepreneur Justin Sun, for a total of US$6.2m, including the buyer's premium. Sun's acquisition encompasses the banana, duct tape, a certificate of authenticity, and installation instructions. Sun, recognizing the artwork as a cultural landmark, expressed intentions to consume the banana, highlighting its significance in art and popular culture.
Initially introduced at Art Basel Miami in 2019, Comedian gained international attention for its US$120,000 asking price, sparking discussions on art's value and nature. The artwork became a focal point for viral incidents, including a performance by David Datuna who ate the displayed banana, and a similar act by a South Korean art student in 2023. Cattelan, known for provocative works such as America, a Gold Toilet, described Comedian as a critique of art fair dynamics, emphasizing a playful yet critical engagement with the art market.
Source: The Gaurdian