A banana that sticks! Justin Sun, the founder of TRON, made headlines again by buying a banana stuck to a wall for an astronomical $6.2 million during an auction at Sotheby’s. This work titled Actor and signed by Maurizio Cattelan, takes the reflection of art and consumerism to a whole new level. Cherry on the banana: the millionaire plans to eat his purchase.
- Justin Sun bought Maurizio Cattelan’s banana stuck to the wall for $6.2 million at a Sotheby’s auction.
- Entitled The Comedian, this work provokes reflections on art and consumerism, while drawing admiration and derision around the world.
at first sight Actor looks straight out of the fruit and veg aisle. This is a an ordinary banana stuck to the wall with adhesive tape.
But what Sun actually bought was a certificate of authenticity with siInstructions describing how to replace a banana when it rots. Yes, the artistic irony is there.
Sales started in 800,000 dollars and rose rapidly.
After just six minutes, the hammer fell on Justin Sun’s bid, which paid $5.2 million plus a $1 million fee to Sotheby’s.
The auctioneer did not lack humor when he said: “ Don’t let that banana slip through your hands ! »
“After over 6 minutes of heated bidding, Sotheby’s Vice President and President of Sotheby’s China Jen Hua submitted the winning bid for the title ‘Comedian’ on behalf of @justinsuntron, a Chinese collector and founder of TRON. »
Justin Sun: buying with cryptocurrencies?
In a tweet, Justin Sun explained his action:
“I am pleased to announce that I bought a banana!!! (…) I am Justin Sun and I am pleased to announce that I have successfully acquired Maurizio Cattelano’s iconic work, The Comedian, for $6.2 million. It’s not just a work of art; represents a cultural phenomenon that brings together the worlds of art, memes, and the cryptocurrency community.
I think this piece will inspire more thought and discussion in the future and become part of history. I am honored to be the proud owner of the banana and look forward to it sparking further inspiration and impact for art lovers around the world.
Additionally, in the coming days I will personally eat the banana as part of this unique artistic experience, honoring its place in both art history and popular culture. Stay tuned! »
If Sun goes through with his plan, he will be third, eat a banana of this work. In 2019, the artist David Datuna sketched the one exhibited at Art Basel Miami after its purchase, stating: “I love contemporary art! ». In 2022, a hungry student did it again during an exhibition in South Korea, citing that he had forgotten to eat breakfast.
As is often the case with contemporary art, reactions are mixed. Some pay tribute to the genius of Cattelan and the strategy of the Sun. Others consider it an artistic fraud. But one thing is certain: this banana, even if it is ephemeral, managed to make an impression and stir up debate.
As Bitcoin approaches $100,000 and a bullish run appears to be taking shape, is this the return of the Great Bullshit to Earth? nawak ? We can think that. Regardless, Sun succeeded in his bet: this banana, already an icon of contemporary art, has become a bridge between the world of art and cryptocurrencies. As the crypto market shakes as another bull run approaches, this story perfectly illustrates the spirit of an era where anything – even a banana – can become a vector of fascination.
And do you eat it for 6 million or do you let it ripen?