The Golden Throne: A Controversial Acquisition Unveiled!
In a move that has left the art world buzzing, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! has revealed itself as the proud new owner of Maurizio Cattelan’s iconic gold toilet, titled “America.” This 18-karat masterpiece, which fetched a staggering $12.1 million at auction, has sparked curiosity and controversy alike.
But here’s where it gets intriguing: Ripley’s, known for its unique and bizarre collections, announced the purchase on Instagram, adding a touch of modern flair to this traditional art acquisition. The museum proudly proclaimed its excitement, highlighting that “America” is now the most valuable addition to its eclectic collection.
And this is the part most people miss: Cattelan’s gold toilet has a fascinating history. It first gained fame at the Guggenheim in 2016, and its story took a twist in 2019 when another golden throne mysteriously vanished from Blenheim Palace. Ripley’s plans to display this functional sculpture publicly, leaving us wondering if visitors will dare to sit on this golden seat.
The sale, handled by Sotheby’s, was a bit of a surprise. Despite wide speculation, “America” sold for just a tad above its raw gold value. The buyer, a “Famous American Brand,” was later revealed to be Ripley’s, adding a layer of intrigue to the transaction.
The toilet’s previous owner, billionaire Steve Cohen, had purchased it from the Marian Goodman Gallery in 2017. Sotheby’s even accepted cryptocurrency as payment, a modern twist on an old-school auction.
So, here’s the big question: Is this a brilliant acquisition or a controversial move? Will the public embrace the idea of sitting on a golden throne? The art world is divided, and we want to hear your thoughts! Do you think Ripley’s made a wise investment, or is this a step too far? Let us know in the comments!