Justin Sun Bought a Banana Taped to a Wall for $120,000 and Plans to Eat It

If you've ever felt like you waste too much money on stuff you don't need, I have some news that will probably make you feel better.

Justin Sun, the founder of cryptocurrency firm Tron, has purchased Maurizio Cattelan’s iconic artwork, “Comedian,” for a staggering $6.2 million at a Sotheby’s auction. The artwork, which features a banana duct-taped to a wall, has been a subject of intense discussion and controversy within the art world since its debut in 2019.

Sun, who is known for his flamboyant personality and passion for collecting unique items, announced his acquisition of the artwork on X, expressing his excitement and sharing his thoughts on the significance of the piece.

“I’m thrilled to announce that I’ve acquired Maurizio Cattelan’s legendary artwork, Comedian, at a Sotheby’s auction,” Sun wrote. “This isn’t just an artwork; it’s a cultural phenomenon, bridging the worlds of art, memes, and crypto. I believe this piece will continue to inspire thought and discussion, ultimately entering the annals of history. I’m honored to become the proud steward of the banana.”

Cattelan’s “Comedian” has been lauded by some as a witty satirical jest and derided by others as the epitome of “idiot art.” The artwork has sparked a wave of commentary on the nature of value in contemporary art and the role of the artist in society.

As the founder of Tron, one of the largest decentralized finance (DeFi) ecosystems in the world, Sun’s acquisition of Cattelan’s artwork also invites interpretations regarding the intersection of DeFi and the traditional art market.

According to the New York Times, Sun’s purchase now makes the banana “arguably the most expensive fruit in the world.” The artwork, which was initially priced at $120,000 when it first appeared at Art Basel in Miami Beach, has seen its value skyrocket over the years, thanks in part to its widespread memeification on social media.