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KAWS Art

American

In the beginning, Brian Donnelly was just a kid from Jersey City, New Jersey, who got into the graffiti thing. KAWS was his tag, chosen simply because he liked the way it looked. Today, KAWS creates all kinds of art — there are KAWS figures and toys, sculptures and colorful drawings, paintings and prints that appropriate pop phenomena like the Smurfs, the Simpsons and SpongeBob SquarePants.

In the late 1990s, the artist, a 1996 graduate of New York’s School of Visual Arts, was making a living as an illustrator for the animation studio Jumbo Pictures. Like young Hansel and Gretel with their trail of crumbs, KAWS would mark the morning route to his downtown Manhattan office with “subvertising,” “interrupting” fashion advertisements by adding his colorful character Bendy, its sinuous length sliding playfully around the likes of a Calvin Klein perfume bottle or supermodel Christy Turlington.

These creations gained a following, to the point where work posted in the morning would disappear by lunchtime. Even in those early days, KAWS was hot on the resale market.

“When I was doing graffiti,” he once explained, “it meant nothing to me to make paintings if I wasn’t reaching people.”

Instead of seeking entrée to the elite New York art world (which, frankly, wasn’t looking for a street artist anyway), KAWS moved to Japan, where a flourishing youth culture welcomed visionaries like him.

In 1999, he partnered with Bounty Hunter, a Japanese toy and streetwear brand, to release his first toy. Companion — an eight-inch-tall vinyl reimagining of Mickey Mouse, with a skull-and-crossbones head and trademark XX eyes — debuted with a limited run of 500. It sold out quickly.

Companion was the first of more than 130 toy designs, which came to include such characters as Chum, Blitz, Be@rbrick, BFF and Milo, each immediately recognizable as KAWS figures by their XX eyes. Fans have proved insatiable. In 2017, MoMA’s online store announced the availability of a limited supply of KAWS Companion figures; as avid collectors logged on to stake their claim, the website crashed — multiple times.

Companion is the most visible of the KAWS posse, appearing over the past decade in new postures and combinations in monumental KAWS statues and other works. These include Along the Way (2013), an 18-foot-tall wooden sculpture of two Companions leaning on each other for support; Together (2016), two Companions in a friendly embrace, which debuted during an exhibition of KAWS’s work at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, in Texas; and KAWS:HOLIDAY (2018), a 92-foot-long inflatable Companion floating on its back in Seoul’s Seokchon Lake. The sculptures were re-created as toys, blurring the lines between art and commerce.

KAWS’s visual language may be drawn from cartoons, but his work doesn’t necessarily evoke childlike joy.

“My figures are not always reflecting the idealistic cartoon view that I grew up on,” he explains in the catalogue for the Fort Worth exhibition. “Companion is more real in dealing with contemporary human circumstances . . . . I think when I’m making work it also often mirrors what’s going on with me at that time.”

KAWS's résumé reads like a record of major 21st-century pop-culture moments. It includes his work with streetwear brands like A Bathing Ape and Supreme; his design for the cover of Kanye West’s 2008 album, 808s & Heartbreak; and his collaboration with designer Kim Jones on the Dior Homme Spring/Summer 2019 collection, Jones’s debut as the fashion brand’s creative director.

Learn how to spot a fake KAWS art toy, and browse authentic KAWS figures, prints, sculptures and mixed media works on 1stDibs.

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Artist: KAWS
KAWS COMPANION 2020 (KAWS black companion)
KAWS COMPANION 2020 (KAWS black companion)

KAWS COMPANION 2020 (KAWS black companion)

By KAWS

Located in NEW YORK, NY

KAWS 2020 Companion (Black): KAWS COMPANION 2020 was created by KAWS to commemorate the 20th anniversary of his signature figure, Companion — and as cultural commentary on a year we...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Street Art KAWS Art

Materials

Resin, Vinyl

Tension 1000% Bearbrick
Tension 1000% Bearbrick

KAWSTension 1000% Bearbrick, 2021

$5,200Sale Price|20% Off

Tension 1000% Bearbrick

By KAWS

Located in Washington , DC, DC

Brand new never displayed in original box Open unknown edition Unsigned

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary KAWS Art

Materials

Plastic

KAWS "Small Lie (Brown)" Toy Sculpture
KAWS "Small Lie (Brown)" Toy Sculpture

KAWS "Small Lie (Brown)" Toy Sculpture

By KAWS

Located in Boston, MA

Artist: KAWS, Title: Small Lie (Brown) Series: Toys Date: 2017 Medium: Sculpture Unframed Dimensions: 11" x 5" x 4.5" Signature: Stamped Edition: Open Edition KAWS (America...

Category

2010s Contemporary KAWS Art

Materials

PVC

KAWS - Small Lie - Black Version
KAWS - Small Lie - Black Version

KAWS - Small Lie - Black Version

By KAWS

Located in Dallas, TX

In December 2017, KAWS released a new version of his classic companion character, titled "Small Lie". The figure features the companion slumped over in what appears to be a disappoin...

Category

2010s Pop Art KAWS Art

Materials

Resin, Vinyl

KAWS -- Astro Boy, Painted Cast Vinyl Sculpture, Limited Edition 300, 2012
KAWS -- Astro Boy, Painted Cast Vinyl Sculpture, Limited Edition 300, 2012

KAWS -- Astro Boy, Painted Cast Vinyl Sculpture, Limited Edition 300, 2012

By KAWS

Located in BRUCE, ACT

KAWS Astro Boy, 2012 Painted cast vinyl Size 37.5 × 15.2 × 11e cm From Limited edition 300 with 'Medicom Toy 2012 China' and 'Tezuka Productions Designed by Kaws' stamp on the under...

Category

2010s KAWS Art

Materials

Plastic, Vinyl

Tide, by KAWS
Tide, by KAWS

Tide, by KAWS

By KAWS

Located in Dubai, Dubai

Tide by KAWS 10-color silkscreen on Coventry Rag paper with water base and ultraviolet ink 27.9 x 23.2 cm Edition 87 of 100 Signed and numbered Published by Phaidon. Mint condition, ...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Street Art KAWS Art

Materials

Screen

KAWS - Share Figure - Brown Version _Brand new collectible
KAWS - Share Figure - Brown Version _Brand new collectible

KAWS - Share Figure - Brown Version _Brand new collectible

By KAWS

Located in Dallas, TX

KAWS SHARE (Brown version), new & unopened in its original packaging: KAWS SHARE first appeared in 'BLACKOUT' – the first London solo exhibition by KAWS (Skarstedt London 2019). In S...

Category

2010s Pop Art KAWS Art

Materials

Resin, Vinyl

400% Gray Bearbrick

400% Gray Bearbrick

By KAWS

Located in Washington , DC, DC

Stamped on back leg "KAWS.02" "MEDICOM TOY 2002" Open unknown edition Unsigned

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary KAWS Art

Materials

Plastic

KAWS -- Blame Game II
KAWS -- Blame Game II

KAWS -- Blame Game II

By KAWS

Located in BRUCE, ACT

KAWS Blame Game II from the Blame Game portfolio,, 2014 Screen print on Saunders Waterford High White paper Hand signed lower right Numbered PP 2/5 Sheet size: 89 x 58.5 cm Frame s...

Category

2010s KAWS Art

Materials

Screen

'Blame Game' III, Silkscreen print on paper
'Blame Game' III, Silkscreen print on paper

'Blame Game' III, Silkscreen print on paper

By KAWS

Located in New York, NY

The ‘Blame Game' series by KAWS is an exceptionally rare collection of prints, with a total of ten in the portfolio series created in 2014. The KAWS motif has become instantly recogn...

Category

2010s Pop Art KAWS Art

Materials

Paper, Screen

Blame Game Portfolio Screen Print by KAWS, Contemporary, Signed, Edition of 100
Blame Game Portfolio Screen Print by KAWS, Contemporary, Signed, Edition of 100

Blame Game Portfolio Screen Print by KAWS, Contemporary, Signed, Edition of 100

By KAWS

Located in New York, NY

KAWS Blame Game The complete set of 10 screenprints in colors, 2014, each signed and dated in pencil #65 from the Edition of 100 (There are 20 artist's proofs), in the original portfolio case. Please note: Each print is 35 x 23 inches. Unframed The KAWS motif has become instantly recognizable with traditional cartoon characters transformed into vibrant, playful, and near-abstract enigmas. Known for his iconic characters with X’s on their eyes and gloves, KAWS delivers his classic dose of street-art meets contemporary art in this brilliant and minimalist work. Published by Pace Prints...

Category

2010s Contemporary KAWS Art

Materials

Screen

KAWS Brown GONE (KAWS GONE brown & blue)
KAWS Brown GONE (KAWS GONE brown & blue)

KAWS Brown GONE (KAWS GONE brown & blue)

By KAWS

Located in NEW YORK, NY

KAWS GONE (Brown), new & unopened in its original packaging. A well-received work and variation of KAWS' large scale GONE sculpture - a key highlight of KAWS’ recent exhibition, 'KAWS: Companionship in the Age of Loneliness...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art

Materials

Resin, Vinyl

KAWS - Along The Way - Black Version
KAWS - Along The Way - Black Version

KAWS - Along The Way - Black Version

By KAWS

Located in Dallas, TX

KAWS Along The Way - Black version New & unopened in its original packaging. Medium: Vinyl & Cast Resin Open unknown edition Unsigned Provenance: Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth

Category

2010s Pop Art KAWS Art

Materials

Resin, Vinyl

KAWS - Companion - Brown version- MOMA 2017 - Painted Cast Vinyl
KAWS - Companion - Brown version- MOMA 2017 - Painted Cast Vinyl

KAWS - Companion - Brown version- MOMA 2017 - Painted Cast Vinyl

By KAWS

Located in Dallas, TX

KAWS's cartoonish style—including his best-known characters with X-ed out eyes—has its roots in his early career as a street artist, when he began replacing advertisements with his o...

Category

2010s Pop Art KAWS Art

Materials

Resin, Vinyl

Companion (Brown) Open Edition

Companion (Brown) Open Edition

By KAWS

Located in Washington , DC, DC

Companion (Brown) Open unknown edition Unsigned

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary KAWS Art

Materials

Plastic

BFF (Pink)
BFF (Pink)

BFF (Pink)

By KAWS

Located in Boston, MA

Artist: KAWS, Title: BFF (Pink) Series: Toys Date: 2018 Medium: Sculpture Unframed Dimensions: 13.5" x 5" x 3.5" Signature: Stamped Edition: Open Edition

Category

2010s Contemporary KAWS Art

Materials

PVC

Passing Through (Black)
Passing Through (Black)

Passing Through (Black)

By KAWS

Located in Bristol, GB

Painted cast vinyl Edition of 500 (unnumbered, reported) Stamped on the underside of foot New, as issued. Some minor imperfections may exist given the nature of the material. Sold in...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary KAWS Art

Materials

Vinyl, Plastic

Companion Flayed (Mono)
Companion Flayed (Mono)

Companion Flayed (Mono)

By KAWS

Located in Bristol, GB

Painted Cast Vinyl Open edition Stamped on the underside of feet Excellent, minor production issue with height. Some minor imperfections may exist due to the nature of the material...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary KAWS Art

Materials

Vinyl, Plastic

KAWS Bus Stop 2002
KAWS Bus Stop 2002

KAWS Bus Stop 2002

By KAWS

Located in NEW YORK, NY

KAWS 'Bus Stop' 2002: Paying homage to KAWS’ early days as graffiti artist, the “Bus Stop” features a plastic bus stop and two KAWS toys on the platform. Features iconic KAWS heads, ...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art

Materials

Resin, Vinyl

KAWS Holiday Taipei (KAWS brown Taipei Companion)
KAWS Holiday Taipei (KAWS brown Taipei Companion)

KAWS Holiday Taipei (KAWS brown Taipei Companion)

By KAWS

Located in NEW YORK, NY

KAWS Brown Holiday Companion (KAWS Taipei): This figurine features KAWS' signature character COMPANION in a resting seated position. The piece was published by All Rights Reserved t...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art

Materials

Vinyl

Metal Chogokin 200% Dissected Bearbrick

Metal Chogokin 200% Dissected Bearbrick

By KAWS

Located in Washington , DC, DC

Beautiful metal KAWS Dissected Bearbrick with articulated joints. Instead of the usual plastic or vinyl used for his toys, this beautiful piece is made ...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary KAWS Art

Materials

Metal

KAWS Holiday SPACE Companion (KAWS black space holiday)
KAWS Holiday SPACE Companion (KAWS black space holiday)

KAWS Holiday SPACE Companion (KAWS black space holiday)

By KAWS

Located in NEW YORK, NY

KAWS:HOLIDAY SPACE (Black), is a celebration of 20 years of the KAWS Companion. Using a sounding balloon, the KAWS:HOLIDAY SPACE was sent up 41.5km into the stratosphere before retuning to Earth. Reminiscent of KAWS’ MTV VMA Moonman trophy (2013), the sculpture features a derailed space suit complete with hoses, valves and more. A standout KAWS display piece constructed with a bright metallic mirrored feel and much heavier body than the artist’s vinyl pieces. Medium: Polyurethane Figure. Black color way. Year: 2020. Dimensions: 11.5 inches in height. New in original packaging; excellent condition. From a sold out edition of unknown. Stamped on the underside. Published by All Rights Reserved. Artist Statement: “So many projects have been cancelled this...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art

Materials

Polyurethane

KAWS Holiday SPACE: complete set of 3 works (KAWS space set)
KAWS Holiday SPACE: complete set of 3 works (KAWS space set)

KAWS Holiday SPACE: complete set of 3 works (KAWS space set)

By KAWS

Located in NEW YORK, NY

KAWS: HOLIDAY SPACE: Complete Set of 3 (Silver, Black & Gold), is a celebration of 20 years of the KAWS COMPANION. Using a sounding balloon, the KAWS: HOLIDAY SPACE was sent up 41.5km into the stratosphere before retuning to Earth. Reminiscent of KAWS’ MTV VMA Moonman trophy (2013), the individual sculptures feature a derailed space suit complete with hoses, valves and more. A standout KAWS display set constructed with a bright metallic mirrored feel as well as a significantly heavier body compared to the artist’s traditional vinyl figures. New/never displayed & accompanied by original packaging. Medium: Polyurethane Figure. Set of 3 individual works. Year: 2020. Dimensions: 11.5 inches in height. Each new & accompanied by their original box; never displayed; excellent condition. Stamped on the underside of each foot. Published by All Rights Reserved from a sold out edition of unknown. KAWS SPACE...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art

Materials

Polyurethane

KAWS Exposed 1999 (early KAWS artist book)
KAWS Exposed 1999 (early KAWS artist book)

KAWS Exposed 1999 (early KAWS artist book)

By KAWS

Located in NEW YORK, NY

KAWS EXPOSED: KAWS Artist Monograph, 1st edition, 1999: KAWS Exposed 1999: A highly collectible & much sought after photo-book of KAWS 1990’s street art - this publication uniquely stands out as the artist’s first monograph; featuring brilliant photos of 31 of KAWS’ ‘augmented’ posters – the original phone-booth and bus-shelter posters that would first put the artist on the map. Cover image: KAWS Running Chum. Softcover; offset printed artist book. 30+ pages. English. 6 x 9 inches. A fine impression in very good overall vintage condition. Unsigned from an edition of 2000. Published Colette Paris, 1999. More on KAWS: KAWS is an American graffiti artist and designer known for his toys, paintings, and prints. Born Brian Donnelly on November 4, 1974 in Jersey City, NJ, KAWS graduated with a BFA from the School of Visual Arts in New York and went on to work in animation. “When your whole art is based on the lettering you choose, you kinda figure out what ones work together. I just liked the shapes of the k, a, w, s,” he explained of his moniker. Having started as a graffiti artist in New York in the early 1990s, KAWS began reworking advertisements in his distinctive style. Pop Art and culture permeate his cartoonish Companion series of figurines, which bear a resemblance to the works of Takashi Murakami. KAWS worked together with Nike in 2017 to produce an Air Jordan 4 shoe and has done multiple collaborations with the clothing brand Uniqlo, continuing to blur the boundaries between fine and commercial art. The artist is also known for his large scale public installations, such as 2019’s KAWS: Holiday which was installed in the Hong Kong harbor during Basel Hong Kong. In 2019, THE KAWS ALBUM (2005) sold at auction for a record $14.8 million, breaking his previous record of $2.7 million which was set in 2018. This work is a take on the Beatles' famous 1967 album cover for Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, but instead replaced with characters from The Simpsons with the artist's signature Xs drawn across their eyes and skull. After years in the industry, KAWS gained approval from his peers in the street art world and more recently prestige from the museum and gallery worlds. Today, his work can be found in the collections at the High Museum of Art in Atlanta, the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, and the Rosenblum Collection in Paris. KAWS currently lives and works in Brooklyn, NY. Related Categories: KAWS 1999...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art

Materials

Paper

KAWS Gone, 2019, Limited Edition Print and Limited Edition Exhibition Book
KAWS Gone, 2019, Limited Edition Print and Limited Edition Exhibition Book

KAWS Gone, 2019, Limited Edition Print and Limited Edition Exhibition Book

By KAWS

Located in Draper, UT

KAWS, 2019, Limited Edition screenprint from an edition 380 of 750. 15 in x 12 in. Signed and numbered by artist. Incredible print and beyond iconic. Great investment in one of the p...

Category

2010s Street Art KAWS Art

Materials

Screen

Holiday Big Moon By KAWS
Holiday Big Moon By KAWS

Holiday Big Moon By KAWS

By KAWS

Located in Dubai, Dubai

Holiday Big Moon By KAWS KAWS, the pseudonym of American artist Brian Donnelly, is widely recognized for his distinctive blend of street art and pop culture iconography. Renowned f...

Category

2010s Contemporary KAWS Art

Materials

Mixed Media

Bronze - Clean Slate, 2022
Bronze - Clean Slate, 2022

Bronze - Clean Slate, 2022

By KAWS

Located in Hong Kong, HK

Bronze - Clean Slate, 2022

Bronze sculpture with original case 

Incised signature, date and number on the bottom, 

Signed on the certificate  

14.2 × 7.6 ...

Category

2010s KAWS Art

Materials

Bronze

Tokion poster

Tokion poster

By KAWS

Located in Washington , DC, DC

This rare poster was produced in 1999, very early into KAWS's career with Tokion Magazine as part of a set of 4 high quality posters printed on thicker paper. It features a photo of ...

Category

1990s Contemporary KAWS Art

Materials

Offset

KAWS BAPE Dissected Milo (White)
KAWS BAPE Dissected Milo (White)

KAWS BAPE Dissected Milo (White)

By KAWS

Located in BRUCE, ACT

KAWS BAPE Dissected Milo (White) 2011 Painted cast resin Size: 19 x 16.5 cm Stamped on the underside of the feet Come with the original box KAWS Dissected Milo was born out of a col...

Category

2010s KAWS Art

Materials

Resin

KAWS SMALL LIE Grey & KAWS Along The Way Grey (set of 2 works)
KAWS SMALL LIE Grey & KAWS Along The Way Grey (set of 2 works)

KAWS SMALL LIE Grey & KAWS Along The Way Grey (set of 2 works)

By KAWS

Located in NEW YORK, NY

KAWS SMALL LIE Companion & KAWS Along The Way Grey (2 works): This curated grouping features two of KAWS' most iconic pieces: KAWS’s Small Lie features the Pinocchio-inspired figure ...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art

Materials

Resin, Vinyl

KAWS SHARE set of 2 works (KAWS Share companion)
KAWS SHARE set of 2 works (KAWS Share companion)

KAWS SHARE set of 2 works (KAWS Share companion)

By KAWS

Located in NEW YORK, NY

KAWS SHARE Companion (Set of 2: Black & Grey): Set of 2 KAWS SHARE figurative sculptures, each new & unopened in its original packaging. KAWS SHARE first appeared in 'BLACKOUT' – th...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art

Materials

Resin, Vinyl

KAWS Flayed Companions 2016: set of 2 (KAWS brown black flayed)
KAWS Flayed Companions 2016: set of 2 (KAWS brown black flayed)

KAWS Flayed Companions 2016: set of 2 (KAWS brown black flayed)

By KAWS

Located in NEW YORK, NY

KAWS Flayed Companion: Set of 2 (KAWS Black & Brown Flayed). Each, new and sealed in their original packaging. Published by Medicom Japan in conjunction with the exhibition, KAWS: Where The End Starts at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth in 2016. These figurines have since sold out. Medium: Vinyl paint, cast resin. Year: 2016. Dimensions: 11 × 5 × 3 in (applies to each individual). New/unopened; excellent condition. Stamped by artist on underside of each foot; from edition of unknown. KAWS A leading artist of his generation, Brooklyn-based KAWS engages audiences beyond the museums and galleries in which he regularly exhibits. KAWS is perhaps best known for his iconic character, Companion, which is featured in key paintings, sculptures, products, and toy figures...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art

Materials

Resin, Vinyl

KAWS - Clean Slate - Black Version
KAWS - Clean Slate - Black Version

KAWS - Clean Slate - Black Version

By KAWS

Located in Dallas, TX

KAWS Clean Slate (Black), new & unopened in its original packaging. Sold Out after the artist's retrospect exhibition at the Modern Art Museum of Fo...

Category

2010s Pop Art KAWS Art

Materials

Resin, Vinyl

KAWS "Small Lie (Black)" Toy Sculpture
KAWS "Small Lie (Black)" Toy Sculpture

KAWS "Small Lie (Black)" Toy Sculpture

By KAWS

Located in Boston, MA

Artist: KAWS, Title: Small Lie (Black) Series: Toys Date: 2017 Medium: Sculpture Unframed Dimensions: 11" x 5" x 4.5" Signature: Stamped Edition: Open Edition KAWS (America...

Category

2010s Contemporary KAWS Art

Materials

PVC

KAWS - BBF - Black - Pop Art
KAWS - BBF - Black - Pop Art

KAWS - BBF - Black - Pop Art

By KAWS

Located in Asheville, NC

KAWS BBF - Black Open unknown edition Unsigned KAWS is a multi-faceted artist straddling the worlds of art and design in his prolific body of work that ranges from paintings, murals...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art

Materials

Plastic, Resin

KAWS HOLIDAY UK set of 2 works (KAWS United Kingdom)
KAWS HOLIDAY UK set of 2 works (KAWS United Kingdom)

KAWS HOLIDAY UK set of 2 works (KAWS United Kingdom)

By KAWS

Located in NEW YORK, NY

KAWS: HOLIDAY United Kingdom: Set of 2 works (KAWS UK): KAWS' signature character COMPANION presented in an upright standing position with its eyes covered. 2 individual works (bla...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art

Materials

Resin, Vinyl

KAWS Passing Through Companion 2018 (KAWS brown passing through companion)
KAWS Passing Through Companion 2018 (KAWS brown passing through companion)

KAWS Passing Through Companion 2018 (KAWS brown passing through companion)

By KAWS

Located in NEW YORK, NY

KAWS Passing Through Companion 2018. New and sealed in its original packaging. The most iconic of KAWS Companions, this Passing Through figure was published by KAWS One Medium: Vinyl Paint, Cast Resin. Year: 2018. Dimensions: 8 × 3.4 inches. New, unopened and in its original packaging. Stamped on the underside of foot from a sold edition of unknown. KAWS is an American graffiti artist and designer known for his toys, paintings, and prints. Born Brian Donnelly on November 4, 1974 in Jersey City, NJ, KAWS graduated with a BFA from the School of Visual Arts in New York and went on to work in animation. “When your whole art is based on the lettering you choose, you kinda figure out what ones work together. I just liked the shapes of the k, a, w, s,” he explained of his moniker. Having started as a graffiti artist in New York in the early 1990s, KAWS began reworking advertisements in his distinctive style. Pop Art and culture permeate his cartoonish Companion series of figurines, which bear a resemblance to the works of Takashi Murakami. KAWS worked together with Nike in 2017 to produce an Air Jordan 4...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art

Materials

Resin, Vinyl

KAWS - Holiday: Singapore (Black Edition) - Pop Art
KAWS - Holiday: Singapore (Black Edition) - Pop Art

KAWS - Holiday: Singapore (Black Edition) - Pop Art

By KAWS

Located in Asheville, NC

KAWS - Holiday: Singapore (Black Edition) - Pop Art Artists KAWS Edition Details Year: 2021 Class: Toy Status: Official Released: 11/13/21 Paper: Vinyl Abo...

Category

2010s Pop Art KAWS Art

Materials

Resin, Plastic

KAWS:Holiday UK Ceramic Container set of 2

KAWS:Holiday UK Ceramic Container set of 2

By KAWS

Located in Washington , DC, DC

Set of 2 large 17 inch tall glazed ceramic containers. Each comes as two pieces which would be stacked together. With original boxes. Edition of 100...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary KAWS Art

Materials

Ceramic

Small Lie Mono

KAWSSmall Lie Mono, 2017

$2,000Sale Price|20% Off

Small Lie Mono

By KAWS

Located in Washington , DC, DC

Small Lie Mono Open unknown edition Unsigned

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary KAWS Art

Materials

Paint, Vinyl

KAWS - What Party - Pink - Pop Art
KAWS - What Party - Pink - Pop Art

KAWS - What Party - Pink - Pop Art

By KAWS

Located in Asheville, NC

KAWS is a multi-faceted artist straddling the worlds of art and design in his prolific body of work that ranges from paintings, murals, and large-scale sculptures to product design a...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art

Materials

Plastic

What Party (Orange), KAWS
What Party (Orange), KAWS

KAWSWhat Party (Orange), KAWS, 2020

$28,000Sale Price|20% Off

What Party (Orange), KAWS

By KAWS

Located in Fairfield, CT

Artist: KAWS (1974) Title: What Party (Orange) Year: 2020 Medium: Silkscreen on Saunders Waterford paper Size: 22 x 22 inches Edition: 100, plus 20 proofs Condition: Excellent Inscri...

Category

2010s Pop Art KAWS Art

Materials

Screen

KAWS - Holiday: Singapore (Grey Edition) - Pop Art
KAWS - Holiday: Singapore (Grey Edition) - Pop Art

KAWS - Holiday: Singapore (Grey Edition) - Pop Art

By KAWS

Located in Asheville, NC

KAWS - Holiday: Singapore (Grey Edition) - Pop Art Artists KAWS Edition Details Year: 2021 Class: Toy Status: Official Released: 11/13/21 Paper: Vinyl Abou...

Category

2010s Pop Art KAWS Art

Materials

Resin, Plastic

KAWS - Along The Way - Black, Brown and Grey Version (set of 3)
KAWS - Along The Way - Black, Brown and Grey Version (set of 3)

KAWS - Along The Way - Black, Brown and Grey Version (set of 3)

By KAWS

Located in Dallas, TX

KAWS Along The Way (Set of 3), Black, Brown and Grey versions. New & unopened in its original packaging. Medium: Vinyl & Cast Resin Open unknown edition Unsigned Provenance: Modern...

Category

2010s Pop Art KAWS Art

Materials

Resin, Vinyl

KAWS Holiday SHANGHAI (complete set of 3 works)
KAWS Holiday SHANGHAI (complete set of 3 works)

KAWS Holiday SHANGHAI (complete set of 3 works)

By KAWS

Located in NEW YORK, NY

KAWS: HOLIDAY Shanghai: complete set of 3 works: KAWS' signature character COMPANION presented holding the moon, and gazing at the sky. New in original packaging - published to comm...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art

Materials

Resin, Vinyl

Kaws Holiday Japan Mount Fuji (Blue)
Kaws Holiday Japan Mount Fuji (Blue)

Kaws Holiday Japan Mount Fuji (Blue)

By KAWS

Located in Englishtown, NJ

Cute and stylish Kaws Mount Fuji from his Holiday Japan collection. Limited Edition. Edition number is listed on custom Kaws Tag. Released for the Kaws outdoor exhibition at Mount Fu...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art

Materials

Polyester

KAWS The Promise: complete set of 3 works  (KAWS Companion set)
KAWS The Promise: complete set of 3 works  (KAWS Companion set)

KAWS The Promise: complete set of 3 works (KAWS Companion set)

By KAWS

Located in NEW YORK, NY

KAWS The Promise (complete set of 3 works): A unique KAWS Companion set in the artist’s signature brown, black & grey color ways. KAWS The Promise features a blue & green globe being...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art

Materials

Resin, Vinyl

KAWS SMALL LIE Companion 2 works (KAWS Companion)
KAWS SMALL LIE Companion 2 works (KAWS Companion)

KAWS SMALL LIE Companion 2 works (KAWS Companion)

By KAWS

Located in NEW YORK, NY

KAWS SMALL LIE 2017: Set of 2 works. Each new and sealed in their original packaging. These KAWS figurative pieces are a rendition of Small Lie produced in collaboration with Qatar M...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art

Materials

Resin, Vinyl

Accomplice (pink) by KAWS
Accomplice (pink) by KAWS

Accomplice (pink) by KAWS

By KAWS

Located in Dubai, Dubai

Accomplice (pink) By KAWS 2002 Signed in plate Vinyl, paint 23 x 7 x 6 cm Edition of 1000

Category

20th Century Contemporary KAWS Art

Materials

Vinyl

KAWS Monster (KAWS Companion)
KAWS Monster (KAWS Companion)

KAWS Monster (KAWS Companion)

By KAWS

Located in NEW YORK, NY

KAWS Chocula Monster: A highly collectible & super decorative KAWS art toy, featuring the famed cereal character: Count Chocula. A playful exploration of KAWS’ love for this timeless pop cultural character featuring his signature motifs. New / never displayed; accompanied by full original packaging. Medium: Vinyl art toy. Approximately: 11.4 × 6.3 inches. New in original packaging. Published by the artist from a sold out edition of unknown. Further background: “Inspired by classic horror film characters, the Monster Cereals...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Street Art KAWS Art

Materials

Resin, Vinyl

KAWS x Star Wars Boba Fett
KAWS x Star Wars Boba Fett

KAWSKAWS x Star Wars Boba Fett, 2013

$6,776Sale Price|30% Off

KAWS x Star Wars Boba Fett

By KAWS

Located in BRUCE, ACT

KAWS x Star Wars Boba Fett, 2013 Size: 26 x 12 x 10 cm Edition of 500 Printed with the artist's name and dated 2013 on the underside Produced by Medicom Toy and OriginalFake, Tokyo C...

Category

2010s KAWS Art

Materials

Vinyl

KAWS "Time Off (Pink)" Toy Sculpture
KAWS "Time Off (Pink)" Toy Sculpture

KAWS "Time Off (Pink)" Toy Sculpture

By KAWS

Located in Boston, MA

Artist: KAWS, Title: Time Off (Pink) Series: Toys Date: 2023 Medium: Sculpture Unframed Dimensions: 7" x 11" x 6" Signature: Stamped Edition: Open Edition KAWS (American, b...

Category

2010s Contemporary KAWS Art

Materials

PVC

Kaws art for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a wide variety of authentic KAWS art available for sale on 1stDibs. If you’re browsing the collection of art to introduce a pop of color in a neutral corner of your living room or bedroom, you can find work that includes elements of blue, pink, purple and other colors. You can also browse by medium to find art by KAWS in paint, synthetic resin paint, vinyl paint and more. Much of the original work by this artist or collective was created during the 21st century and contemporary and is mostly associated with the Pop Art style. Not every interior allows for large KAWS art, so small editions measuring 2 inches across are available. Customers who are interested in this artist might also find the work of Peter Max, Robert Indiana, and Heidler & Heeps. KAWS art prices can differ depending upon medium, time period and other attributes. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $125 and tops out at $200,000, while the average work can sell for $1,970.
Questions About KAWS Art
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 30, 2024
    Some art lovers feel that canvas prints are worth it. Due to their materials, canvas prints more closely resemble paintings than other types of prints, making them appealing to those who want that classic gallery look for less. Also, canvas prints that feature gallery-wrapped construction allow the artwork to be the center of focus. However, there are many other types of prints to consider for your space. Options include wood prints, metal prints, fabric prints and more traditional paper prints. On 1stDibs, explore a large collection of art prints.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 4, 2024
    Yes, some acrylic paintings may be worth money. Many well-known artists have used acrylics to produce paintings. Among them are Andy Warhol, David Hockney, Robert Motherwell, Bridget Riley, Kenneth Noland, Mark Rothko, Roy Lichtenstein and Helen Frankenthaler. Paintings by these and other famous artists can be worth a considerable amount. Generally, some factors that contribute to the potential value of a painting are artist, size, historical significance and condition. To find out how much a particular acrylic painting in your collection may be worth, consult a certified appraiser or experienced art dealer. Shop a wide variety of paintings on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Brooklyn, New York artist KAWS uses a variety of mediums for his work, with acrylic painting, screen prints and sculptures being the most predominant. On 1stDibs, find a collection of authentic KAWS pieces from some of the world’s top sellers.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 27, 2024
    What is so special about KAWS is that the American artist creates imaginative pieces that appropriate pop phenomena like the Smurfs, the Simpsons and SpongeBob SquarePants. He is particularly well known for his toys, including his debut figure, Companion, inspired by Mickey Mouse. He has also teamed up with streetwear brands like A Bathing Ape and Supreme and collaborated with designer Kim Jones on the Dior Homme Spring/Summer 2019 collection. Find a range of KAWS art on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertAugust 8, 2024
    KAWS brand is a term that some people apply to the pieces produced by the artist KAWS. But technically, KAWS is a person — Brian Donnelly — and not a brand. He creates all kinds of art. There are KAWS figures and toys, sculptures and colorful drawings, paintings and prints that appropriate pop phenomena like the Smurfs, the Simpsons and SpongeBob SquarePants. In 1999, KAWS partnered with Bounty Hunter, a Japanese toy and streetwear brand, to release his first toy. Companion, an eight-inch-tall vinyl reimagining of Mickey Mouse with a skull-and-crossbones head and trademark XX eyes, debuted with a limited run of 500. It sold out quickly. Companion was the first of more than 130 toy designs, which came to include such characters as Chum, Blitz, Be@rbrick, BFF and Milo, each immediately recognizable as KAWS figures by their XX eyes. You will sometimes see people refer to these toys as KAWS brand figurines. Shop a diverse assortment of KAWS art on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertJanuary 10, 2025
    Only 500 KAWS Companions were made in the first limited edition run. To produce the series of figures, KAWS partnered with the manufacturer Toy Hunter. The original Companions hit the market in 1999 and sold out quickly. Find a diverse assortment of KAWS art on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024
    Yes, there are fake KAWS. Unfortunately, the rising popularity of KAWS figures has brought a proliferation of fakes. To avoid purchasing a replica, familiarize yourself with the nuances of a specific model and study images of authentic figures. Is the color right? Many fakes get the nuances wrong, so be sure to compare the color of your figure to those shown in images of authentic pieces. How about the finish? Check if your particular figure should be matte or shiny. Are there discrepancies in the X’s of the eyes or the placement of design features? For example, a four-foot KAWS Dissected Companion should have 10 dots for the ribs. Many fakes only have nine. You can also seek the opinion of a certified appraiser or knowledgeable dealer when attempting to authenticate a specific figure. On 1stDibs, explore a selection of KAWS art.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMay 14, 2024
    There is no owner of KAWS. KAWS is not a company or a business; it is the name of artist Brian Donnelly. He got his start as a graffiti artist in New Jersey and used the tag KAWS to sign his work because he liked the way it looked. Today, KAWS creates all kinds of art. There are KAWS figures and toys, sculptures and colorful drawings, paintings and prints that appropriate pop culture phenomena like the Smurfs, the Simpsons and SpongeBob SquarePants. Shop a variety of KAWS art on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMay 30, 2024
    KAWS is so popular in China because his artwork appeals to a young demographic that is interested in the bold yet playful style of his figurines, toys, sculptures, prints and other works. The unique street art style of KAWS’s works has broad appeal beyond China as well. His pieces that appropriate elements of pop culture, such as SpongeBob Squarepants and The Simpsons, are especially famous. Shop a wide variety of KAWS art on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 21, 2024
    What KAWS’s art means is open to interpretation. In the late 1990s, the artist, a 1996 graduate of New York’s School of Visual Arts, was making a living as an illustrator for the animation studio Jumbo Pictures. Like young Hansel and Gretel with their trail of crumbs, KAWS would mark the morning route to his downtown Manhattan office with “subvertising,” “interrupting” fashion advertisements by adding his colorful character Bendy, its sinuous length sliding playfully around the likes of a Calvin Klein perfume bottle or supermodel Christy Turlington. Companion is now the most visible of the KAWS posse, appearing over the past decade in new postures and combinations in monumental works. KAWS’s visual language may be drawn from cartoons, but his work doesn’t necessarily evoke childlike joy. “My figures are not always reflecting the idealistic cartoon view that I grew up on,” he explained in the catalogue for an exhibition at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, in Texas. “Companion is more real in dealing with contemporary human circumstances . . . . I think when I’m making work it also often mirrors what’s going on with me at that time.” On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of KAWS art.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMay 30, 2024
    KAWS doesn't stand for anything, as the name is not an abbreviation. Rather, it is the artistic alias of Brian Donnelly. The name dates back to the start of his career, when he was a street artist known by his tag, KAWS. In interviews, Donnelly has explained that he chose the name KAWS simply because he likes how it looks. Shop a collection of KAWS art on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 16, 2024
    KAWS uses acrylic paint for many of his works. The artist has said in the past that he has custom paints produced for him by the company Golden. When painting his figurines, KAWS uses a technique that makes the brushstrokes virtually invisible. Find a variety of KAWS art on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024
    The most popular KAWS art is a topic that is open to debate. However, his first-ever toy design is a favorite among collectors. Called COMPANION, it is an eight-inch-tall vinyl reimagining of Mickey Mouse with a skull-and-crossbones head and trademark XX eyes. COMPANION debuted with a limited run of 500 and sold out quickly. Find an assortment of KAWS figures on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 21, 2024
    What makes KAWS’s art unique is the artist's innovative approach to his work. The American artist seamlessly blends elements of Pop art, street art and popular culture into his pieces. He is known for putting a creative spin on familiar characters and his playful figurines, which often feature double-X eyes. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of art by KAWS.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024
    Many people consider KAWS’s art type to be Pop art. The style first emerged in the 1950s. In stark contrast to traditional artistic practice, Pop art’s practitioners drew on imagery from popular culture, using things like comic books, advertising, product packaging and other commercial media to create original paintings, prints and sculptures that celebrated ordinary life in the most literal way. In his work, KAWS similarly appropriates pop phenomena like Mickey Mouse, the Smurfs, the Simpsons and SpongeBob SquarePants. Shop a selection of KAWS art on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
    Yes, KAWS is real art. Although Brian Donnelly, the artist known as KAWS, often draws inspiration from popular culture, his art includes sculptures and colorful drawings, paintings and prints. His iconic toys and figures also qualify as art, and like prints, they're sold in limited qualities. On 1stDibs, shop a diverse assortment of KAWS art from some of the world's top dealers and galleries.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
    Yes, KAWS is a real artist. Born Brian Donnelly, he got his start as a graffiti artist in his hometown of Jersey City, New Jersey. KAWS was his tag, chosen simply because he liked how it looked. Today, KAWS creates all kinds of art, including figures and toys, sculptures and colorful drawings, paintings and prints that appropriate pop phenomena like the Smurfs, the Simpsons and SpongeBob SquarePants. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of KAWS art.
  • 1stDibs ExpertJanuary 10, 2025
    The exact number of Jordan 4 X KAWS that were made is unknown. However, the collaboration sneaker was a limited edition, so it is safe to assume that fewer pairs were produced than what is typical of other Jordan 4 colorways. The collaborative design features a gray suede upper, custom footbeds and a glow-in-the-dark sole. Find a collection of KAWS art on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 1, 2024
    KAWS is famous for producing figures, toys, sculptures, drawings, paintings and prints that borrow from pop culture phenomena like the Smurfs, the Simpsons and SpongeBob SquarePants. In 1999, he partnered with Bounty Hunter, a Japanese toy and streetwear brand, to release his first toy. Called Companion, it was an 8-inch-tall vinyl reimagining of Mickey Mouse, with a skull-and-crossbones head and XX eyes. Companion debuted with a limited run of 500 and sold out quickly. The piece was the first of more than 130 toy designs by KAWS, which came to include such characters as Chum, Blitz, Be@rbrick, BFF and Milo, each immediately recognizable as KAWS figures by their XX eyes. Explore a selection of KAWS art on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    A KAWS figure is a toy or figurine comparable to an action figure, created by the American artist, Brian Donnelly, who is known professionally as KAWS. Called ‘companions’, the figures are in KAWS’ signature style, and monster-size versions have been seen everywhere from Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbor to Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade. Shop a selection of KAWS pieces from some of the world’s top art dealers on 1stDibs.
  • Irena Orlov ArtMarch 1, 2021
    Kaws' Companion is a clown-like figure based on a Mickey Mouse with X-ed out eyes.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 13, 2024
    KAWS art is the general term for works created by the American artist KAWS. He is best known for his more than 130 toy designs, which include such characters as Chum, Blitz, Be@rbrick, BFF and Milo, each immediately recognizable as his work by their XX eyes. In addition, KAWS produces sculptures, drawings, paintings and prints. On 1stDibs, shop a range of KAWS art.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 1, 2024
    The word KAWS means an American artist. Born Brian Donnelly, KAWS adopted the name when he was active as a graffiti artist in New Jersey and New York. In interviews, he has explained that KAWS has no particular meaning to him. He simply chose the name because he liked how the characters looked. He is most well known for his line of whimsical figures with double-X eyes. Explore a range of KAWS art on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 16, 2024
    No, Bearbrick and KAWS are not the same. However, they have collaborated with one another many times. KAWS is the pseudonym of the artist Brian Donnelly, while Bearbrick is a brand of collectible designer toys produced by the Japanese company MediCom Toy Incorporated. On 1stDibs, find a variety of KAWS art.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, KAWS are always produced in limited edition runs. KAWS is a New York-based artist who designs limited edition toys and clothing. He is known for creating figurines that mix both high- and low-brow art. Widely popular with pop culture enthusiasts and collectors, KAWS art can only be found through select retailers. Find a range of KAWS art for sale on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    KAWS is an American artist, toy and clothing designer. Born in New Jersey under the name Brian Donnelly, he became interested in graffiti very early on. He earned a BFA and began working for Disney. His artwork gained popularity and he began traveling and designing toys and clothing while continuing art and sculptures. On 1stDibs, find a variety of original artwork from top artists.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 25, 2024
    The artist behind KAWS is Brian Donnelly. As a kid in Jersey City, New Jersey, he got into graffiti art, using KAWS as his tag. Today, KAWS creates a diverse range of art and design objects. There are KAWS figures and toys, sculptures, colorful drawings, paintings and prints that appropriate pop phenomena like the Smurfs, the Simpsons and SpongeBob SquarePants. On 1stDibs, shop a range of KAWS art.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
    A KAWS FAMILY set is a collection of four sculptures created by artist Brian “KAWS” Donnelly that come in a set. The term family refers to the fact that the set comprises two large and two small figures, so side by side, they resemble parents and children. Donnelly released the sets on September 13, 2021, in an assortment of colorways. On 1stDibs, find a selection of authentic KAWS sculptures.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, artist Brian Donnelly, known professionally as KAWS, does make his own art. He admits he has a regimented schedule now that he has children, and finds that this has made him more productive, allowing him to focus on sculptures and paintings in the mornings. On 1stDibs, find a variety of original artwork from top artists.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 3, 2024
    How KAWS makes his sculptures varies. The New Jersey-born artist Brian “KAWS” Donnelly works with a variety of materials, including fiberglass, wood and bronze. By mixing up his techniques and experimenting with different mediums, KAWS can incorporate various colors and textures into his sculptures, figures and toys, and continues to innovate his practice.

    In 1999, KAWS partnered with Bounty Hunter, a Japanese toy and streetwear brand, to release his first toy. Companion was the first of more than 130 toy designs, which came to include such characters as Chum, Blitz, Be@rbrick, BFF and Milo, each immediately recognizable as KAWS figures by their XX eyes. Fans have proved insatiable (and counterfeiters have since taken notice).

    In 2017, MoMA’s online store announced the availability of a limited supply of KAWS Companion figures; as avid collectors logged on to stake their claim, the website crashed — multiple times.

    Find authentic KAWS art on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 26, 2024
    What the KAWS character is called depends on which one you mean, as KAWS has created more than one. Companion is the most visible of the KAWS posse, appearing over the past decade in new postures and iterations in both monumental KAWS statues and small figures. The character is a reimagining of Mickey Mouse with a skull-and-crossbones head and trademark XX eyes. Other KAWS characters include Accomplice, Chum and Bendy. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of KAWS art.
  • 1stDibs ExpertAugust 29, 2024
    To tell if a KAWS Companion is real, assess its overall quality. All authentic KAWS figures will feel solid and dense. If it’s hollow, it’s likely not a KAWS. And be skeptical of any product marked “factory error.” KAWS spends a great deal of time perfecting every limited-edition design and would never release a less-than-flawless creation. Smudged, deformed or misaligned details are highly unlikely on an authentic KAWS; it’s more probable that “factory error” and “sample” are simply more appealing terms for “unauthorized copy.” Also, look for the product’s correct year of creation and © KAWS stamped on the bottom of the doll. Some models should have the series name or toy manufacturer on them as well. Knowing the characteristics of the particular figure you're purchasing can also help you determine if the toy is authentic. When in doubt, enlist the help of a knowledgeable expert, such as a certified appraiser or experienced art dealer. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of KAWS art.
  • 1stDibs ExpertAugust 26, 2024
    To tell if a KAWS doll is real, familiarize yourself with the details of the particular KAWS figure you are interested in purchasing. Learn what has been released. For example, was a certain model ever produced in a particular colorway? Or with certain dimensions? Look up images from reliable sources. The XX logo on a KAWS figure is one of the most recognizable features and can be a helpful indicator of authenticity if you know where to look for it. In many toys, it is incorporated into the anatomy or costume, like the six Xs on the Companion model. On the KAWS Separated and Passing Through Companion, it is on the hands and feet. Be wary of KAWS toys with Xs that are misaligned, smudged or show bleeding. Look closely to make sure the X eyes are symmetrical. If you need assistance with authentication, enlist the help of a certified appraiser or experienced art dealer. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of KAWS figures.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    The KAWS Take open edition is a type of vinyl figurine sold as a decorative object or work of art. Arton Contemporary produces the figurines in limited quantities. The open edition Take debuted in 2020. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of KAWS art.
  • 1stDibs ExpertAugust 20, 2024
    To tell if a KAWS figure is real, first assess its overall quality. From the Companion to the Chum, all authentic KAWS figures will feel solid and dense. If it’s hollow, it’s likely not a KAWS.

    Be skeptical of any product marked “factory error.” KAWS spends a great deal of time perfecting every limited-edition design and would never release a less-than-flawless creation. Smudged, deformed or misaligned details are highly unlikely on an authentic KAWS; it’s more probable that “factory error” and “sample” are simply more appealing terms for “unauthorized copy.” Of course, if a figure is preowned and unboxed, a few dings and scratches may appear.

    Next, examine the details. An authentic box for a figure will have a hologram label that changes color as you move it. Is the box’s size correct? The color? How about the font size and spacing everywhere on the packaging? Does it have the correct design on the front? Inspect even the smallest detail — it may be the one that a lazy counterfeiter overlooked.

    As for the figure itself, again, every element counts. Is the color right? Many fakes get the nuances wrong, so be sure to compare the color of your figure to those shown in images of authentic pictures. How about the finish? Check if your particular figure should be matte or shiny. Are there discrepancies in the X of the eyes or the placement of design features? For example, a four-foot KAWS Dissected Companion should have 10 dots for the ribs. Many fakes only have nine.

    When in doubt about the authenticity of a piece, seek the help of a certified appraiser or other knowledgeable expert.

    On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of KAWS figures.