BFF Bronze Edition
Or pay 3 times BFF is one of the indispensable characters in the KAWS universe. Inspired by familiar figures from popular culture, notably Elmo, he is instantly recognizable thanks to his fully furred silhouette and his famous squinted eyes. I find him particularly touching and endearing, with a very different presence from that of Companion.
Technical information
Year: 2022
Technique: bronze sculpture
Dimensions: 3.5 × 6.4 × 15 cm
Edition: numbered artist’s proof of 50
Signature: in bronze
Condition: excellent condition
Certificate: Certificate of authenticity signed by KAWS
Box: original wooden box
Provenance: Private collection
BFF is part of a series of twelve bronze sculptures created by KAWS in collaboration with AllRightsReserved. Each model depicts an iconic character or composition of the artist in a intimate format, very different from his monumental installations and famous vinyl editions. The series includes 250 numbered copies as well as 50 artist proofs for each model.
This piece immediately distinguishes itself from the other sculptures in the series by the character’s woolly appearance. The work done in bronze is particularly successful: the material reproduces the numerous strands and gives the entire surface of the sculpture relief. Depending on the angle from which it is viewed, the light reveals new details and almost reinforces the impression of softness.
I really like the contrast between the material and the character. The bronze is dense, cold and timeless, while BFF seems soft, familiar and almost comforting. This opposition gives the sculpture an astonishing presence and makes the character even more engaging.
Despite its playful and child-like appearance, BFF retains that part of melancholy inherent in the KAWS universe. Its immobile posture and arms placed along the body give it an expression that is both shy and touching. It is a work that immediately catches the eye and then makes one want to approach to observe the quality of the work on the hair and the volumes.
I was lucky enough to acquire from a collector the twelve artist’s proofs that make up this series. Seeing them all together is a real pleasure, as each sculpture has its own character, its own posture and its own emotion. BFF stands out for its texture, its endearing side and the exceptional quality of its bronze finish.
The example offered by Galerie Montorgueil the artist is a numbered edition of 50. It is sold with its original wooden box and its certificate signed by KAWS.
