The Multi-Million Dollar Banana, with David Galperin

On today’s episode, Maurizio Cattelan’s Comedian - an artwork that provoked scandal, sparked imagination, and upended the very definition of contemporary art. David Galperin, Sotheby’s Vice Chairman, Head of Contemporary Art for The Americas, examines the complexities and challenges that come with bringing such an ineffable and metaphysical artwork to auction. An artwork that dares to ask: who sets the value of art?

Further details about the episode subject

This is an episode of The Specialist, your weekly dose of wonder. In The Specialist, explore the significance and journey of an extraordinary work through the eyes of those that know it best.

The Specialist is brought to you by Sotheby's Financial Services. SFS offers asset-based loans to unlock the value of your fine art, automobiles and other luxury collectibles.

To step further into the World of Sotheby’s, visit any one of our galleries, which are open to the public. Explore more at sothebys.com.
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Sotheby’s is the temporary custodian of some of the world’s most rare, remarkable and coveted art and objects. Our global specialists are connoisseurs and market experts in 40 countries and 70 collecting categories. They will be your guides, exploring the significance and journey of an extraordinary work with those who know it best. Your weekly dose of wonder is available now.
To step further into the world of Sotheby’s, you can visit any of our galleries around the world; they’re open to the public. For more information, visit sothebys.com.

• No. of episodes: 20
• Latest episode: 2025-09-09
• Arts Society & Culture

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