A Banana Taped to a Wall Sells for US$6.2 Million in New York

The Controversial Artwork by Maurizio Cattelan

A fresh banana taped to a wall – a provocative work of conceptual art by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan – was bought for US$6.2 million (RM27.7 million) on Wednesday by a cryptocurrency entrepreneur at a New York auction, Sotheby’s announced in a statement.

The Conceptual Artwork

The debut of the edible creation, entitled “Comedian,” at the Art Basel show in Miami Beach in 2019 sparked controversy and raised questions about whether it should be considered art – Cattelan’s stated aim.

The Buyer: Justin Sun

Chinese-born crypto founder Justin Sun forked over more than US$6 million for the fruit and its single strip of silver duct tape, which went on sale for US$120,000 five years ago.

The Sale

The sale featured seven potential buyers and smashed expectations, with the auction house issuing a guide price of US$1-$1.5 million before the bidding.

The Certificate of Authenticity

Given the shelf life of a banana, Sun is essentially buying a certificate of authenticity that the work was created by Cattelan, as well as instructions about how to replace the fruit when it goes bad.

The Future of the Banana

Sun, who founded cryptomoney exchange Tron, said he intended to eat his investment, too.

The Art Market

The sale of the banana is a reflection of the current art market, where high-end buyers are looking for unique and provocative pieces. Cattelan’s work is often humorous and deliberately provocative, with a 1999 sculpture of the pope stuck by a meteor titled ‘The Ninth Hour’.

About the Artist

Maurizio Cattelan is an Italian artist known for his thought-provoking and often humorous works. His other notable pieces include an 18-carat, fully functioning gold toilet called “America” that was offered to Donald Trump during his first term in the White House.

FAQs

* What is the artwork?
The artwork is a banana taped to a wall, created by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan.
* Who bought the artwork?
Chinese-born crypto founder Justin Sun bought the artwork for US$6.2 million.
* What is the significance of the artwork?
The artwork is considered a cultural phenomenon that bridges the worlds of art, memes, and the cryptocurrency community.
* Is the artwork edible?
Yes, the artwork is an edible banana.
* What is the plan for the artwork’s future?
Justin Sun intends to eat his investment, and the artwork will eventually be replaced with a new banana.

Conclusion

The sale of the banana is a testament to the ever-changing art market, where unique and provocative pieces are in high demand. While some may question the value of the artwork, it is clear that many are willing to pay top dollar for a piece that sparks conversation and pushes the boundaries of what we consider art.