ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

OpenAI Presents Butt Statue as Evidence in Musk Trial

other · 2026-05-13

During the Musk v. Altman trial, OpenAI's legal team introduced a bronze sculpture of a posterior as physical evidence to demonstrate Elon Musk's erratic behavior. The statue, described as a trophy, was allegedly commissioned by Musk and presented to OpenAI co-founder Sam Altman. The artifact was displayed to the jury as part of OpenAI's argument that Musk's actions were irrational and vindictive. The trial, which began in March 2025, centers on Musk's claims that OpenAI abandoned its nonprofit mission. The statue's introduction marks a bizarre turn in the proceedings, drawing widespread media attention.

Key facts

  • OpenAI presented a bronze butt statue as evidence in Musk v. Altman trial
  • The statue was allegedly commissioned by Elon Musk
  • It was given to Sam Altman as a trophy
  • The trial began in March 2025
  • Musk claims OpenAI abandoned its nonprofit mission
  • The statue was shown to the jury as proof of Musk's concerning behavior
  • The case is being heard in a US court
  • The artifact has drawn significant media coverage

Entities

Institutions

  • OpenAI
  • Wired

Sources