Trump and Epstein Statue Appears on National Mall in ‘Titanic’ Pose
A statue depicting former President Donald Trump and the late Jeffrey Epstein in a recreation of the iconic “Jack and Rose” scene from the film Titanic has been installed on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. The artwork, titled “King of the World,” was placed near the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, and has quickly drawn attention from visitors and the media.
The Sculpture and its Meaning
The 12-foot-tall statue, reportedly gold-painted, depicts Epstein at the bow of a miniature ship, with Trump standing behind him, arms outstretched as if embracing him. This pose directly references the famous scene from James Cameron’s 1997 blockbuster, Titanic, where characters Jack and Rose stand at the front of the ship.
A plaque beneath the sculpture reads, “The tragic love story between Jack and Rose was built on luxurious travel, raucous parties, and secret nude sketches.” It continues, “This monument honors the bond between Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein, a friendship seemingly built on luxurious travel, raucous parties, and secret nude sketches.”
‘Make America Safe Again’ Banners
Flanking the statue are ten large banners featuring a photograph of Trump and Epstein, emblazoned with Trump’s campaign slogan, “Make America Safe Again.” The banners too display the insignia of the Justice Department, with the word “Justice” redacted. Time Magazine reports on these details.
The Secret Handshake Collective
The artwork is attributed to an anonymous artist collective known as Secret Handshake. The Independent notes that this group has previously created other protest art installations on the National Mall, including a sculpture of Trump and Epstein holding hands and a replica of Trump’s alleged birthday letter to Epstein.
According to USA Today, the artists typically use intermediaries to obtain permits for their installations from the National Park Service.
White House Response
The White House has dismissed the statue as a politically motivated display. Deputy Press Secretary Abigail Jackson stated, “When will these wealthy Democrat donors create sculptures of Democrats… who continued to solicit money and meetings from Epstein after he was convicted as a sex offender?” Time Magazine reported on this statement.
Ongoing Scrutiny of Trump-Epstein Relationship
The statue’s appearance comes as scrutiny of Trump’s relationship with Epstein continues, fueled by the release of Department of Justice files related to Epstein’s case, as mandated by the Epstein Files Transparency Act, signed into law in November. The Independent highlights this context.
Duration of Display
The duration of the statue’s display remains uncertain, as permits for installations on the National Mall typically have an end date. However, it is currently attracting visitors and generating discussion on the National Mall.