Justin Sun, founder of the crypto coin TRON, posted his announcement to X: "I’m thrilled to announce that I’ve bought the banana !!! ... This is not just an artwork; it represents a cultural phenomenon that bridges the worlds of art, memes, and the cryptocurrency community. I believe this piece will inspire more thought and discussion in the future and will become a 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 enthusiasts 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!" he added.
The art piece is called "Comedian" and was assembled by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan with merely a banana, reportedly purchased for 35 cents, and duct tape, per Daily Mail. It first debuted at Art Basel in Miami in 2019 where it sold for $120,000. According to Seoul's Leeum Museum of Art, where the painting hung in May, the banana has to be replaced every two to three days. Pranksters have removed and eaten the banana before, but it was simply replaced and no action was taken.
The value of the artwork reportedly comes from the certificate of authenticity itself allowing anyone who owns it to recreate the banana and duct tape on a wall of their choice.
