A controversial naked statue of US President Donald Trump has gone on display at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France.
Danish artist Jens Galschiøt created the satirical sculpture, titled “Orange Plague” and also known as “King of Injustice.” The artwork shows Trump sitting naked on the shoulders of a much smaller man. He also holds a long golf club.
The sculpture stands about 2.5 metres tall, including its pedestal. Galschiøt says he coated it with 23-karat gold. An orange cloth covered the statue before its unveiling on Tuesday, October 6.
The artwork now stands at a busy point connecting two parliament buildings. It will remain there until Thursday, October 8. Danish left-wing MEP Per Clausen invited Galschiøt to exhibit the piece. Clausen defended the display, saying,
“If someone is so thin-skinned that they cannot tolerate this sculpture being exhibited in the European Parliament, then they have no place on the world stage.”
Beside the statue, business cards carry a fictional quote from the “King of Injustice.” It reads:
“I am sitting on the back of a man. He is sinking under the burden. I would do anything to help him. Except stepping down from his back.”
Galschiøt says the work also highlights what he sees as Trump’s role in blocking climate action.
The unusual artwork has sparked attention at the European Parliament. Its short display combines political satire, controversy and art.
