Maurizio Cattelan’s notorious artwork Comedian, famously consisting of a real banana duct-taped to a wall, has reached new heights at a Sotheby’s auction in New York, selling for an astounding $5.2 million.
The piece, which originally debuted in 2019 with a price tag of $120,000, has once again captured global attention. It was part of a limited edition of three, each of which includes a real banana, a roll of duct tape, a certificate of authenticity, and detailed installation instructions.
A Unique Acquisition
The new buyer, facilitated through Sotheby’s China office, will be entrusted with the unconventional components to recreate the artwork. While the banana is a perishable item, the conceptual nature of the piece and its attached documentation affirm its value in the art world.
Cattelan’s Provocative Legacy
Cattelan, known for his satirical and thought-provoking works, has sparked debates over the definition of art since Comedian first appeared. The piece gained notoriety not only for its price but also for incidents such as a performance artist eating one of the bananas at Art Basel in 2019.
The $5.2 million sale reaffirms the enduring allure and controversy surrounding conceptual art, ensuring that Comedian remains a landmark in contemporary art discourse.
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