The Banana That Made History: Maurizio Cattelan’s ‘Comedian’ Sells for $6.2 Million
by Betty Nov 22, 2024
In a moment that has once again captured the world’s attention, Maurizio Cattelan’s infamous artwork Comedian—a banana duct-taped to a wall—made waves at Sotheby’s New York salesroom, selling for an astonishing $6.2 million. This sale, which exceeded its $1 million estimate sixfold, underscores the enduring allure and controversy of contemporary art. First unveiled at Art Basel Miami Beach in December 2019, Comedian quickly became a global phenomenon. Its simplicity—a single banana affixed to a wall with duct tape—belies its profound impact on the art world. The piece drew record-breaking crowds, flooded social media, graced the cover of The New York Post, and sparked heated debates among critics and the public alike. Passionately discussed and humorously imitated, it redefined how we perceive art and the value we assign to it. At Sotheby’s Now & Contemporary Evening Sale, the competition for Comedian was fierce. The bidding lasted over six minutes, culminating with Jen Hua, Deputy Chairman of Sotheby’s Asia and Chairman of Sotheby’s China, securing the winning bid on behalf of Chinese collector and TRON cryptocurrency founder Justin Sun. Reflecting on his acquisition, Sun remarked, “When I first heard about this work back in 2019, I thought it was pure genius. And when I heard it was back on the market, I knew I had to have it. Cattelan’s humor and sense of adventure strike a strong chord with me, and I’m thrilled to now be its proud owner.” Beyond its viral fame, Comedian serves as a testament to Cattelan’s sardonic wit and his ability to challenge the conventions of art. The piece evokes the spirit of artistic predecessors while compelling the modern audience to reconsider the very definition of art. Its sale for $6.2 million cements its status as one of the most iconic and controversial artworks of the century. As Sotheby’s New York Sales Week continues, the spotlight turns to the Contemporary Day Auction, beginning November 21 at 10 AM EST in collaboration with Samsung US. While new artworks will grace the auction block, the legacy of Comedian—the banana that redefined art—remains unparalleled.
