Happenings Maurizio Cattelan’s Comedian
Going bananas…Where have you been this week? If you haven’t read about Maurizio Cattelan’s Comedian, the infamous duct-taped banana which sold this week to a Chinese cryptocurrency entrepreneur, Justin Sun, then you’ve missed out on the most political art sale of the century.
The work redefined contemporary art at Art Basel Miami Beach in 2019, has made a return, sparking fresh debate. A cultural touchstone that blurred the lines between absurdity and brilliance,Comediansold at Sotheby’s ‘The Now and Contemporary Evening Auction’ for $5.2m. This work—part satire, part commentary—ignited a global frenzy upon its unveiling. Crowds lined up, critics argued, and the banana, taped simply to a wall, became an icon. Eaten not once but twice during its initial showing,Comedian vaulted into infamy as a conversation starter about the nature of value, creativity, and the role of art in our lives. Cattelan himself described it not as a joke, but as a “sincere reflection on what we value.”
Whether you see Comedian as a profound statement or a punchline for the art world, it’s impossible to ignore. From viral sensation to auction house centrepiece, this piece continues to challenge perceptions and demand attention. Be part of the moment, follow the global tour, and witness the ultimate auction of the season.
