Maurizio Cattelan’s conceptual masterpiece, Comedian, a banana duct-taped to a wall, is back in the spotlight as it heads to Sotheby’s for an estimated auction price of $1 million to $1.5 million. Originally unveiled at Art Basel Miami Beach in 2019, the artwork created a media frenzy and divided opinions about the nature of modern art.
The piece is part of a limited edition, and buyers receive a roll of duct tape, a banana, and instructions for displaying it. First sold for $120,000 per edition, Comedian gained notoriety as a commentary on consumerism, absurdity, and the commodification of everyday items in art. At its debut, the artwork drew massive crowds and was eventually removed for safety reasons.
Critics and enthusiasts alike have debated its value, with Sotheby’s describing it as “a defiant work of pure genius” that redefined the art world. Cattelan, known for provocative works, initially purchased the bananas used in the piece for a mere 30 cents, amplifying its irony.
Despite skepticism, the artwork’s cultural impact is undeniable. It has been displayed in museums, sparked legal and artistic debates, and now heads to auction as a contemporary icon. Whether viewed as profound or playful, Comedian continues to challenge perceptions, pushing boundaries on what constitutes art in today’s world.
The auction represents a new chapter in the life of this polarizing piece, reaffirming Cattelan’s role as a provocateur in the global art scene.
