Banana Duct-Taped to a Wall to Auction for an Estimated $1 Million

Art-World Sensation or Money Laundering Scheme?

The artwork, titled "Comedian," caused a stir when it was first exhibited at Art Basel Miami Beach in 2019. Now, it's set to go under the hammer with a hefty price tag.

A banana duct-taped to a wall, titled "Comedian," created by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan, is set to be auctioned at Art Basel Miami Beach in December. The estimated price of the artwork is between US$1 million and US$1.5 million.

The artwork, which consists of a banana held to a wall with duct tape, has been met with mixed reactions from the art world. Some critics have praised the work as a commentary on the commercialization of art, while others have dismissed it as a publicity stunt.

Despite the controversy, "Comedian" has undoubtedly generated buzz and garnered attention for Cattelan. The auction is expected to draw significant interest from collectors and investors alike.

In 2019, another version of "Comedian" was sold at Art Basel Miami Beach for US$120,000. The buyer, David Zwimmer, later ate the banana, causing further controversy.

The auction of "Comedian" is sure to spark debate about the value of art and the role of money in the art world. Whether the artwork is worth the estimated price remains to be seen, but it is undoubtedly a talking point in the contemporary art scene.