A second version of the stolen gold toilet artwork, titled “America,” has recently sold for $12.1 million at an auction. This unique piece was created by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan and is made of solid 18-carat gold, weighing over 101 kilograms. The toilet was purchased by Ripley’s Believe It or Not! following the theft of its first installation from Blenheim Palace in 2019.
Background of “America”
The first version of this striking artwork was installed in a public restroom at the Guggenheim Museum in New York City in 2016. However, it gained notoriety when it was stolen by a group of thieves from Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire, three years later. On September 14, 2019, five men broke into the palace, extracted the toilet, and drove off in a stolen Volkswagen Golf, creating an internationally publicized heist.
Details of the Auction
The auction for the second gold toilet took place at Sotheby’s in New York City. It received just one bid, which was determined by its gold weight, starting at approximately $10 million. Ripley’s Believe It or Not! later announced they were the buyers via an Instagram post, expressing their excitement with the phrase, “we’re flush with excitement.”
The Impact of the Artwork
This artwork is noted for being a commentary on the relationship between art and value. David Galperin, head of contemporary art at Sotheby’s New York, described it as Cattelan’s “tour de force.” He highlighted the piece’s role in confronting essential questions surrounding the art market and cultural institutions.
Previous Highlights
- The first gold toilet at the Guggenheim was used by more than 100,000 individuals during its display.
- In 2016, Cattelan’s sculpture of a kneeling Hitler sold for $17.2 million, marking the highest price for his works at auction until now.
- On the same night as the “America” auction, a painting by Gustav Klimt was sold for $236.4 million, setting a record as the second most expensive piece sold at auction.
Legal Consequences of the Heist
The theft has resulted in significant legal repercussions. James Sheen and Michael Jones, both involved in the burglary, have faced convictions. Sheen pled guilty to burglary and transferring criminal property, while Jones was found guilty of burglary. Fred Doe received a suspended sentence for conspiracy. These developments reflect the serious nature of the crime that captured global headlines.
Future Possibilities
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! has hinted at plans regarding how to showcase the golden toilet, stating they are “exploring possibilities.” However, they acknowledge the need for careful planning before allowing guests to interact with the artwork.
The sale of the second gold toilet marks a significant moment in the intersection of contemporary art and commercial value, securing its place in artistic history as both a cultural phenomenon and a provocative statement on the art world.
