Trump sculpture sparks controversy at European Parliament

A satirical sculpture titled ‘The Orange Plague’ has sparked significant controversy at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France. Created by Danish artist Jens Galschiøt, the 2.6-meter-tall installation depicts Donald Trump naked and covered in 23-karat gold leaf, sitting on the shoulders of a frail man while holding a golf club and the scales of justice.

The artist stated the work is a critique of Trump’s wealth, political power, and impact on the rule-based world order and climate change, drawing inspiration from Hans Christian Andersen’s ‘The Emperor’s New Clothes’. The installation was sponsored by Danish politician Per Clausen and the European Parliament’s Left group.

The display drew sharp criticism from several political figures. Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico called for its removal, describing it as a ‘sign of the decline of the entire European Union’ and an insult to international partners. Other Members of the European Parliament labeled the work ‘disgraceful’ and ‘unbecoming’ of the institution. The sculpture has since been removed from the premises.