Art world shrugs at $6 million banana-based ‘Comedian’ purchase as high-end market seeks to regain footing
A piece of art that was overtly titled "Comedian" didn't appeal to the majority of art buyers.
It should come as no surprise that the comedian is merely a banana duct taped to a wall. Maurizio Cattelan, an Italian artist, created the piece, which made a big impression at the 2019 Art Basel fair in Miami but also drew as many laughs as praise from critics.
However, Comedian sold for $6.24 million on Wednesday, including $1 million in fees, giving Cattelan the last laugh.
Justin Sun, a 34-year-old Chinese cryptocurrency platform founder who is headquartered in Switzerland, was quickly identified as the buyer. On his X feed, Sunconfirmed the purchase, stating that it was a cultural phenomena that connects the Bitcoin community, memes, and the realm of art.
I think this work will become part o...