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 MONSTERS: set of 2 works (KAWS Companion set)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS Monsters (set of 2 works):
A highly collectible & super decorative set of KAWS art toys, featuring the famed cereal characters: Frankenberry & Count Chocula. A playful exploration of KAWS’s love for these timeless pop cultural characters featuring his signature motifs. Each new / never displayed; accompanied by full original packaging.
Medium: Vinyl art toys; set of 2 individual works.
Approximate dimensions of each individual work: 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 Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS Small Lie (Black)
By KAWS
Located in Englishtown, NJ
Very cool black Edition of Kaws Small Lie Sculpture.
Stamped signature in yellow on one foot with KAWS 17 and SMALL LIE.
Open edition
Produced by Medicom Toys for Kaws.
Painted cast...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Street Art KAWS Art
Materials
Vinyl
KAWS Black Companions: set of 10 (KAWS Companion 2018-2021)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS Companion 2018-2021:
A curated set of 10 individual Black KAWS Companions new & unopened in original packaging.
KAWS Clean Slate, 2018: 14.25 x 8 inches.
KAWS Along The Way 2019: 10.5 x 9 inches.
KAWS Holiday Space 2020: 11.5 inches in height.
KAWS What Party: 11 x 5 inches.
KAWS Holiday Taipei: 5.5 x 7 inches.
KAWS Share: 12.4 x 6.3 inches.
KAWS Separated 2021: 7.75 x 6 inches.
KAWS BFF: 13 x 5.7 inches
KAWS 2020...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS SMALL LIE Brown (brown KAWS Companion)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS SMALL LIE Brown:
Among KAWS’s signature “Companions,” Small Lie has the most childlike resonance. Clothed in overall shorts, the Pinocchio-inspire...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS Taipei Holiday Taipei & Japan set of 2 (KAWS Brown Companion)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS Brown Holiday Companion: 2 works (KAWS Taipei & KAWS Japan):
A set of two KAWS Holiday figures featuring, KAWS' signature character, COMPANION in relaxed positions. Each work was respectively published to commemorate the debut of KAWS’ larger sculptures...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS HOLIDAY Japan (KAWS brown companion)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS Brown Holiday Companion (KAWS Mount Fuji Japan):
This sold out figurine features KAWS' signature character COMPANION in a resting position. This figur...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS WHAT PARTY set of 2 works (KAWS Companion)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS WHAT PARTY: Set of 2 works:
These KAWS Companion vinyl sculptures feature KAWS' signature CHUM character in a hunched position. Published to commemorate the debut of KAWS’ large...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS - FAMILY Figures - Black version - collectible Pop Art
By KAWS
Located in Dallas, TX
KAWS - FAMILY Figures - Black version
New on its original packaging.
Medium: Vinyl & Cast Resin
Open unknown edition
Unsigned
Category
2010s Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS WHAT PARTY set of 2 works (KAWS Companion set)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS WHAT PARTY (Set of 2 works: orange & yellow)
2 individual KAWS Companions featuring KAWS' CHUM character in a hunched position. Published to commemorate the debut of KAWS’ large...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS Black Companion 2016: set of 2 works (KAWS Companion black)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS Companion, Black Flayed & Black full body 2016 (set of 2 individual pieces). Each new and sealed in original packaging. Published by Medicom Japan in conjunction with the exhibi...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS "What Party" Brooklyn Museum Pink Sculpture Street Art
By KAWS
Located in Draper, UT
KAWS WHAT PARTY (Pink):
KAWS orange WHAT PARTY Companion featuring KAWS' CHUM character in a hunched position. Published to commemorate the debut of KAWS’ larger...
Category
2010s Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Vinyl
KAWS The Promise set of 2 works (KAWS Companion set)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS The Promise (set of 2 works):
A unique KAWS Companion set in the artist’s signature black & brown color-ways. KAWS The Promise features a blue ...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS "What Party" Brooklyn Museum Sculpture Contemporary Street
By KAWS
Located in Draper, UT
KAWS WHAT PARTY (orange):
KAWS orange WHAT PARTY Companion featuring KAWS' CHUM character in a hunched position. Published to commemorate the debut of KAWS’ larger...
Category
2010s Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Vinyl
KAWS SMALL LIE Black & KAWS Along The Way Black (set of 2 works)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS SMALL LIE Companion: Black &KAWS Along The Way Black set of 2 works:
This set features two of KAWS' iconic pieces; KAWS’s Small Lie features the Pinocchio-inspired figure bows i...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
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 Along The Way: complete set of 3 (KAWS Companion Along The Way set)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS Along The Way: Complete Set of 3 works: new and unopened in original packaging. The KAWS Along The Way figurine is a rendition of the artist's 2013 18 foot wood sculpture origin...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS - Take Figure - Blue Version _BFF Companion
By KAWS
Located in Dallas, TX
Open unknown edition
Unsigned
Several months after releasing the KAWS Share Figure in February, the artist released his long anticipated KAWS Take Figure. The figure, which features...
Category
2010s Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
Holiday Japan Mount Fuji (Blue)
By KAWS
Located in Englishtown, NJ
Super cool Mount Fuji plush in blue.. The must have for the modern home displayed on couch, chair or on shelf it is a conversation piece.
Limited Edition release from 2019.
Certifica...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary KAWS Art
Materials
Polyester
KAWS COMPANION 2020: Complete Set of 3 Works (KAWS 2020 set)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS 2020 Companion: Complete Set of 3 Works:
KAWS COMPANION 2020 was created by KAWS to commemorate the 20th anniversary of his signature figure,...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS WHAT PARTY Companion (KAWS black what party)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS WHAT PARTY Black:
This KAWS Companion vinyl sculpture features KAWS' signature CHUM character in a sloping position. Published to commemora...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS BFF Companions (KAWS BFF vinyl Set of 2)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS Black & Pink BFF (set of 2) new, unopened in its original packaging.
A well-received variation of KAWS' large scale BFF sculpture is in Los Angeles's Playa Vista neighborhood. ...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
400% Mad Hectic Kubrick w/Box
By KAWS
Located in Washington , DC, DC
This KAWS silver 400% Mad Hectic Kubrick, is very collectible. This piece incorporates his take on the Michelin Man, which he has renamed Chum, with the ve...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary KAWS Art
Materials
Plastic
KAWS CHUM pink (KAWS Chum Companion)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS CHUM Companion 2022 (pink): Published by KAWS to commemorate the 20th anniversary of his famed KAWS’ Chum character; "I can remember clearly packing and...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS Companion: set of 10 works (KAWS Brown Companion set)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS Companion 2016-2021:
A sharply curated set of 10 distinguished individual Brown KAWS Companions new & unopened in original packaging. Dimensions as follows:
KAWS Clean Slate, 2...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
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 ...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Paper
KAWS UK Holiday Companion 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 - eac...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
URGE (COMPLETE SET)
By KAWS
Located in Aventura, FL
Based off of a series of paintings currently showing at the Brooklyn Museum. The limited edition works consist of 10 high quality screen prints on Saunders Waterford 425gm HP Hi-Whit...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Street Art KAWS Art
Materials
Paper, Screen
KAWS Holiday Taipei & KAWS Holiday Singapore (2 works)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS Black Holiday Taipei & KAWS Holiday Singapore:
A curated set of 2 KAWS Holiday figures featuring KAWS Companion in two distinctive positions. Each piece was published by the art...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Vinyl
KAWS Holiday Companion (KAWS brown holiday companion)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS 'Holiday' Companion Seoul:
This figurine was published by All Rights Reserved to commemorate the debut of a large scale KAWS floating figure for Seoul’s Seokchon Lake during sum...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
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
Holiday Japan Mount Fuji (Pink)
By KAWS
Located in Englishtown, NJ
Super cool Mount Fuji plush in pink.. The must have for the modern home displayed on couch, chair or on shelf it is a conversation piece.
Limited Edition release from 2019.
Released ...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary KAWS Art
Materials
Polyester
KAWS Companion 2016 (KAWS grey companion)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS Grey Companion, 2016. New and sealed in its original packaging. Published by Medicom Japan in conjunction with the exhibition, KAWS: Where The...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS BFF Companion Set of 2 works (KAWS Companion)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS BFF 2017 (set of 2 individual works): each new, & unopened in original packaging.
Standout KAWS Companion figures derived from KAWS’ large scale BFF sculpture in Los Angeles's...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
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 Flayed Companions 2016 (set of 2 KAWS flayed companions)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS Flayed Companion: Set of 2. KAWS grey flayed & KAWS brown flayed. Each, new and sealed in their original packaging. Published by Medicom Japan in conj...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS GONE set of 2 (KAWS Gone companion)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS GONE: Set of 2 (Grey & Brown), new & unopened in their original packaging.
A well-received work and variation of KAWS' large scale GONE sculpture - a ...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS Dissected Milo Companion (KAWS Milo)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS Dissected Milo Grey & White Companion, 2011:
From a scarce 2011 collaboration between KAWS and the early influential KAWS collector, Nigo and his brand Bape (A Bathing Ape...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS Passing Through Companion: set of 2 (2018)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS Companion Passing Through 2018: Set of 2 works (Brown & Grey):
The most iconic of the KAWS Companions presented new in original packaging in 2 color-ways: Brown & Grey.
Medium...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS HOLIDAY Space & United Kingdom (set of 2 works)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS HOLIDAY SPACE (Silver) & KAWS HOLIDAY United Kingdom: set of two works (2020/2021):
This set features two KAWS Holiday pieces:
KAWS HOLIDAY SPACE is a celebration of 20 years o...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl, Polyurethane
DISSECTED COMPANION (GREY)
By KAWS
Located in Aventura, FL
Screen print in colors on wove paper. Hand signed, dated and numbered by KAWS. Edition 61/100 (there were also 15 artist's proofs). Published by KAWSONE, Brooklyn. Frame size ap...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Street Art KAWS Art
Materials
Paper, Screen
KAWS Together Companion: Set of 2 (Brown & Black)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS Together 2018: Set of 2 (Brown & Black):
In KAWS TOGETHER, KAWS’s iconic “Companions” are interlocked, consoling each other in an everlasting hug. KAWS 1st debuted this embracin...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS Flayed Companions 2016: complete set of 4 works (KAWS companion)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS Companion 2016: Complete Set of 4 Flayed Companions. Each, new and sealed in original packaging. Published by Medicom Japan in conjunction with the exhibition, KAWS: Where The E...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS "Holiday Space, " 2020
By KAWS
Located in Lake Worth Beach, FL
Artist/Designer; Manufacturer: KAWS aka Brian Donnelly (American, b. 1974); Medicom Toy Corporation
Marking(s); notes: marking(s); 2020
Materials: painted cast vinyl
Dimensions (H, ...
Category
2010s Post-Modern KAWS Art
Materials
Mixed Media
KAWS SEPARATED complete set of 3 works (KAWS Separated Companion set)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS SEPARATED (Complete Set of 3 Works): each new & unopened in original packaging:
This highly collectible KAWS SEPARATED set is derived from the Broo...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS Holiday Indonesia: set of 2 works (KAWS Indonesia)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS Holiday Indonesia: complete set of 2 works (KAWS Indonesia):
These figurative vinyl sculptures feature KAWS' Accomplice character in a resting position; published on the occasio...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS What Party & Chum (set of 2 works)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS What Party & Chum (set of 2 works):
Two individual KAWS Companions featuring the classic KAWS CHUM character. Published to commemorate the debut of KAWS’ larger scale sculptural...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS Passing Through Companion 2018 (KAWS companion)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS Grey Passing Through Companion 2018. New and sealed in its original packaging.
The most iconic of the KAWS Companions, this passing through piece was published by KAWS One
Med...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS - Gone - Grey Version - collectible PopArt
By KAWS
Located in Dallas, TX
KAWS Gone- Grey version
New on its original packaging.
Medium: Vinyl & Cast Resin
Open unknown edition
Unsigned
Category
2010s Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS FAMILY set of 2 works (brown & grey KAWS Family companion)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS FAMILY 2021 set of 2 (KAWS FAMILY brown & KAWS FAMILY grey):
A well-received work and variation of KAWS' larger FAMILY sculpture - this highly collectible KAWS Companion set was...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS Along The Way: complete set of 3 (KAWS Companion Along The Way set)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS Along The Way: Complete Set of 3 works: new and unopened in original packaging. The KAWS Along The Way figurine is a rendition of the artist's 2013 18 foot wood sculpture origin...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
SUPERMODEL 2
By KAWS
Located in Aventura, FL
Screen print in colors on Rives BFK wove paper. Hand signed, dated and numbered by the artist. Artwork size 29.2 x 21 inches. Custom framed as pictured. Frame size approx 34.5 x 2...
Category
1990s Street Art KAWS Art
Materials
Paper, Screen
KAWS Passing Through Companion Set (complete set of three 2018)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS Companion Passing Through Complete Set of 3 (2018). Each new and sealed in their original packaging.
The most iconic of the KAWS C...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS WHAT PARTY set of 3 works (KAWS Companion set)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS WHAT PARTY (Set of 3 works: orange, pink & yellow):
3 individual KAWS Companions featuring KAWS' CHUM character in a hunched position. Published to commemorate the debut of KAW...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS SEPARATED Companion (set of 2 works)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS SEPARATED (set of 2 works: brown & grey): each new & unopened in original packaging:
This highly collectible KAWS SEPARATED set of 2, is derived fr...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS SEPARATED KAWS Changbai (KAWS companion set of 2 works)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS SEPARATED & KAWS Holiday Changbai (set of 2 works):
These highly collectible KAWS SEPARATED and KAWS HOLIDAY Changbai figures are derived from the Brooklyn based artist’s larger...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS TOGETHER Grey (KAWS grey together)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS TOGETHER Companion 2018: A rare sealed/unopened example in excellent condition.
Medium: Vinyl Paint & Cast Resin.
10 x 8 inches.
New/sealed in its original packaging; packagi...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS FAMILY set of 2 works (brown & black KAWS Family companion)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS FAMILY 2021 set of 2 (KAWS FAMILY brown & KAWS FAMILY black):
A well-received work and variation of KAWS' larger FAMILY sculpture - this highly ...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Street Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS HOLIDAY UK set of 3 works (KAWS United Kingdom)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS: HOLIDAY United Kingdom: Complete Set of 3 works (KAWS UK):
KAWS' signature character COMPANION presented in an upright standing position with its eyes covered. 3 individual works (black, brown, & grey), each new in their original packaging - published by All Rights Reserved to commemorate the debut of KAWS’ sculptural hot-air balloon — one of the world’s largest at 42 meters tall, flying over the English country-side of Bristol. Each figure comes individually housed in a standout KAWS designed hard case
Medium: Set of 3 Painted cast resin vinyl figures.
Dimensions: 12 inches in height (applies to each individual piece).
New, unopened; excellent condition.
Stamped on the underside from a sold out edition of unknown.
Includes artist card as pictured.
A great wall or shelf set that would look fantastic displayed either in or out of the case.
KAWS UK Holiday (further background):
The sculptural hot-air balloon KAWS: HOLIDAY UK — one of the world’s largest at 42 meters tall — reimagines the artist’s signature work, COMPANION, in larger-than-life proportions. KAWS first set flight to his unique flying creation in Bristol, allowing his Holiday Companion to soar miles above breathtaking greenery, dominating the British skies in its debut.
KAWS 'Holiday' first debuted at Seokchon Lake in Seoul in 2018 and these large inflatable real life works have since been exhibited in Hong Kong, Taipei, and Virginia...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS CHUM KAWS WHAT PARTY complete set of 10 (KAWS Companion set)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS CHUM (20th anniversary), KAWS WHAT PARTY: complete set of 10 works:
These KAWS CHUM & What Party Companions feature KAWS' CHUM Companion brilliantly rendered as complete set of...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS BFF Blue (KAWS Blue BFF Companion)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS Blue BFF Companion (vinyl), new in its original packaging.
A well-received work and variation of KAWS' large scale BFF sculpture in Los Angeles's Playa...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS Taipei Holiday Companion Set (set of 3 KAWS companions)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS Holiday Companion, Complete Set of 3 (KAWS Taipei):
KAWS' signature character COMPANION presented in a resting seated position. 3 individual pieces (black, brown, & grey). Each...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS - Gone - Black Version - collectible Pop Art
By KAWS
Located in Dallas, TX
KAWS Gone- Black version
New on its original packaging.
Medium: Vinyl & Cast Resin
Open unknown edition
Unsigned
Category
2010s Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS Clean Slate Grey (KAWS grey Companion)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS Clean Slate (grey) new & unopened in its original packaging.
A well-received work and variation of KAWS' large scale Clean Slate sculpture - a key highlight of KAWS’ major mus...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS Brown Flayed Companion 2016 (KAWS flayed companion brown)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS Brown Flayed Companion 2016. New and sealed in its original packaging. Published by Medicom Japan in conjunction with the exhibition, KAWS: Where The End Starts at the Modern Ar...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
WHAT PARTY (ORANGE)
By KAWS
Located in Aventura, FL
Screen print in colors on Saunders Waterford hi-white paper. Hand signed, dated and numbered by the artist. Edition 33/100 (there was also 20 APs and 5 PPs). Published by KAWSONE, B...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Street Art KAWS Art
Materials
Paper, Screen
BFF Plush (Black Limited Edition)
By KAWS
Located in Englishtown, NJ
Super soft Kaws X Peanuts collaboration Plush.
NYC inspired edition with the all black design.
Re-imagined by Kaws complete with the recognizable Kaws X eyes.
Made and released by Un...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary KAWS Art
Materials
Polyester
KAWS Brown Companions: set of 4 works (KAWS Companion 2016-2019)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS Companion 2016-2019:
A curated set of 4 individual Brown KAWS Companions new & unopened in original packaging. Dimensions as follows:
KAWS Clean Slate, 2018: 14.25 x 8 x 8 inch...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS "Holiday Space, " 2020
By KAWS
Located in Lake Worth Beach, FL
Artist/Designer; Manufacturer: KAWS aka Brian Donnelly (American, b. 1974); Medicom Toy Corporation
Marking(s); notes: marking(s); 2020
Materials: painted cast vinyl
Dimensions (H, ...
Category
2010s Post-Modern KAWS Art
Materials
Mixed Media
KAWS Holiday Companion Japan (KAWS black companion)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS Black Holiday Companion (KAWS Mount Fuji Japan):
This figurative vinyl sculpture features KAWS' signature character COMPANION in a resting position. Published by All Rights Res...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS Clean Slate Black (KAWS black clean slate companion)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS Clean Slate (Black), new & unopened in its original packaging.
A well-received work and variation of KAWS' large scale Clean Slate sculpture - a key highlight of KAWS’ major mu...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
KAWS WHAT PARTY (KAWS companion)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS WHAT PARTY (orange):
KAWS orange WHAT PARTY Companion featuring KAWS' CHUM character in a hunched position. Published to commemorate the debut of KAWS...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
SHARE
By KAWS
Located in West Hollywood, CA
KAWS
SHARE
2021; Screenprint on Stonehenge 250gm Steel Grey
20 x 16 inches
Signed and dated in the lower right
Editioned 312 out of 500 in the lower left
Unframed
Stamped on verso lo...
Category
2010s KAWS Art
Materials
Screen
KAWS TAKE set of 2 works (KAWS Take companion)
By KAWS
Located in NEW YORK, NY
KAWS TAKE: Set of 2 Works - each new in original packaging.
These standout KAWS figurative pieces are a variation of KAWS' large scale TAKE sculpture - a key highlight of the exhibi...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Pop Art KAWS Art
Materials
Resin, Vinyl
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.
Artists Similar to KAWS
Questions About KAWS Art
- Is KAWS real art?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024Yes, 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.
- Is KAWS a real artist?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024Yes, 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.
- What does KAWS’s art mean?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 21, 2024What 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.
- What does KAWS stand for?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMay 30, 2024KAWS 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.
- Who is the owner of KAWS?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMay 14, 2024There 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.
- Why is KAWS so popular in China?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMay 30, 2024KAWS 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.
- What type of art is KAWS’s art?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024Many 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.
- What paint does KAWS use?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 16, 2024KAWS 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, 2024The 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.
- What makes KAWS’s art unique?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 21, 2024What 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 ExpertJanuary 10, 2025The 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.
- What is so special about KAWS?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 27, 2024What 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.
- What kind of art does KAWS make?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Brooklyn, 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.
- What is KAWS brand?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertAugust 8, 2024KAWS 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.
- Are canvas prints worth it?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 30, 2024Some 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, 2024Yes, 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.
- Are there fake KAWS?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024Yes, 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 ExpertJanuary 10, 2025Only 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.
- What are KAWS figures?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022A 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.
- What is a KAWS companion?1 AnswerIrena Orlov ArtMarch 1, 2021Kaws' Companion is a clown-like figure based on a Mickey Mouse with X-ed out eyes.
- What is KAWS famous for?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 1, 2024KAWS 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.
- Are Bearbrick and KAWS the same?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 16, 2024No, 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.
- What does KAWS mean?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 1, 2024The 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.
- What is KAWS art?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 13, 2024KAWS 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.
- What is the story behind KAWS?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022KAWS 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.
- Are KAWS limited edition?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, 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.
- Who is the artist behind KAWS?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 25, 2024The 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.
- What is a KAWS FAMILY set?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023A 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.
- Does KAWS make his sculptures?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, 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, 2024How 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, 2024What 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, 2024To 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, 2024To 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.
- What is KAWS Take open edition?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The 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, 2024To 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.