Jeff Koons' Luxury and Degradation series, unveiled in 1986, critically examines the impact of advertising and consumer culture on society, particularly focusing on the allure and consequences of alcohol consumption. The series juxtaposes the opulence associated with alcohol-related advertisements and products against the backdrop of social stratification and the deceptive nature of luxury. Koons utilized stainless steel, a material he associated with the proletarian class due to its common use in kitchenware, to craft objects and utensils related to alcohol consumption. By giving these items a shiny, lavish finish, he endowed them with a semblance of luxury, challenging the viewers' perceptions of value and class distinction​ (Guggenheim Bilbao)​.

The artist drew inspiration from the varied ways alcohol advertisements targeted different socioeconomic groups, noting a stark contrast between the explicitness of messages aimed at lower-income audiences and the abstractness of those intended for wealthier viewers. This distinction in advertising techniques, Koons argued, served to reinforce social barriers and stereotypes, cementing his critique of the role of luxury goods and advertising in maintaining social immobility​ (Guggenheim Bilbao)​.

Koons' exploration of these themes through "Luxury and Degradation" reflects his broader interest in the interaction between art, consumer culture, and societal values. By repurposing everyday materials and objects within a fine art context, Koons invites viewers to reconsider their relationship with consumer goods, the concept of luxury, and the societal roles prescribed by consumerist culture​ (Jeff Koons)​​ (Wikipedia)​.

The Luxury and Degradation series stands as a pivotal work in Koons' oeuvre, encapsulating his ability to merge conceptual depth with the aesthetics of pop culture and consumerism. It continues to resonate as a potent commentary on the complexities of desire, consumption, and identity in contemporary society.