The anonymous art collective Secret Handshake (TSH) has once again attracted public attention by installing a provocative installation in the heart of Washington, D.C., near the Lincoln Memorial. This time the object of discussion was a nearly three-meter-long golden toilet bowl with a plaque reading "A Throne Worthy of a King," which many perceived as a satire on Donald Trump.
The group, which they say consists of fewer than five people, has been turning National Mall into a site for political performance art for more than a year, according to The Washington Post. Their approach combines street art, elements of theater and media strategy: the works are created quickly, often using materials that mimic bronze or marble, and dismantled almost immediately by the authorities. However, it is this short-termism that makes their projects viral.
This is not the first time TSH has addressed the figure of Trump. In the fall of 2025, they unveiled a sculpture depicting him, along with Jeffrey Epstein, holding hands. More installations and stickers later followed, referencing high-profile scandals and the connections of influential figures including Ghislaine Maxwell and Prince Andrew.
The current “gold toilet” is a direct reference to the much-discussed renovation of the White House interiors that Trump himself has bragged about. The artists use this image as a symbol of excessive luxury and political vanity.
The peculiarity of the collective is skillful work with information. They distribute press releases in advance, publish digital models of their works and actively use social networks. Even the dismantling of the installations becomes part of the idea, increasing the public response.
TSH’s work raises an important question: where is the line between art, satire and political agitation? Their actions are controversial, but invariably make us talk about the role of art in public dialog.
