12-Foot Trump–Epstein 'Titanic' Statue Appears on National Mall — Tourists Stunned

A 12-foot statue depicting Donald Trump and disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein in a pose inspired by the 1997 film Titanic has appeared on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., drawing attention from tourists, commuters and political observers.

The sculpture, unveiled on 10 March by the art collective 'The Secret Handshake', stands about 12 feet tall and features the two men in a pose similar to the iconic scene in Titanic, where the characters Jack and Rose stand at the bow of the ship with their arms extended. Placed with the United States Capitol visible in the background, the installation quickly attracted visitors who stopped to photograph and examine the unusual artwork.

Statue Recreates Iconic Movie Moment

The statue depicts Epstein standing at the front of a ship-like platform with his arms stretched outward. Behind him, Trump stands holding Epstein's wrists, recreating the famous moment from Titanic where Jack supports Rose as she stretches her arms toward the horizon. The installation is partially painted with gold spray paint, giving the sculpture a reflective appearance from a distance.

According to information accompanying the piece, the artwork is titled 'The King of the World', a reference to the line delivered by Jack in the film, played by actor Leonardo DiCaprio, when he shouts,'I'm king of the world.'

A plaque placed beside the sculpture compares the fictional relationship between Jack and Rose with the real-life association between Trump and Epstein, referencing elements of the film's storyline while drawing parallels to the pair's past social connection.

Banners Surround the Installation

Ten large banners surround the statue, each displaying a photograph of Trump and Epstein together, along with the phrase 'Make America Safe Again'.

The banners also feature a modified version of the United States Department of Justice insignia. In the displayed design, the word 'Justice' has been removed from the seal, leaving an empty space where the text would normally appear. The visual elements are intended to form part of the broader message of the installation, according to the group responsible for the artwork.

'Piece Is Meant to Spark Political Conversation'

The sculpture was unveiled by 'The Secret Handshake', a small group that says it creates public art using humour and satire to encourage discussion about political power and influence. In an email to reporters, the group said its goal was to prompt conversation through provocative public installations.

The collective has previously placed other politically themed artworks in public spaces in Washington. One earlier installation created by the same group showed Trump and Epstein holding hands and dancing together. That sculpture appeared near the National Mall in September during what the group described as 'Friendship Month'.

Visitors Pause to Photograph the Display

On the day it appeared, tourists and local residents stopped to observe the statue as they walked, jogged, or commuted through the area. The National Mall, one of the most visited public spaces in the United States, is home to historic landmarks, including memorials and monuments commemorating American leaders and major historical events. Temporary art installations occasionally appear there, though permits are generally required for official displays.

Those permits are typically approved by the National Park Service, which manages the National Mall and surrounding federal parkland. Officials have not said how long the statue will remain on display.

White House Criticises Installation

The statue's appearance also prompted a response from the White House. In a statement to reporters, White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson criticised the display and questioned why similar artworks targeting other political figures had not been created. Trump has previously said he was not aware of Epstein's criminal activities. Epstein, who had connections with numerous wealthy and influential individuals, died in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges.

Future of the Installation Unclear

It remains uncertain how long the sculpture will stay on the National Mall. Members of The Secret Handshake told reporters they hope the statue will remain in place for several days, though they did not provide additional details about the installation.

For now, the striking sculpture has become a temporary curiosity in the nation's capital — combining political commentary, pop-culture imagery and public art in one of Washington's most recognisable locations.