In the world of contemporary art, streetwear, and designer collectibles, few artists have created a visual identity as recognisable as KAWS.
Known for his distinctive characters, expressive artwork, and collaborations across art and fashion, KAWS has built a global following among collectors and enthusiasts.
One particularly interesting release is the KAWS Tokyo First Companion/Accomplice/JPP/Chum Keychain Set of 15 (2021). Released in connection with the KAWS TOKYO FIRST exhibition, this collection brings together five character designs in a range of colours.
From the iconic Companion to Chum, Accomplice, and JPP, the set offers collectors an opportunity to explore several recognisable KAWS designs in a compact collectible format.
In this guide, we explore the exhibition behind the release, the 15 keyholders included in the collection, their design details, and what buyers should consider before purchasing.
1. The Story Behind KAWS TOKYO FIRST 2021
KAWS TOKYO FIRST was a major exhibition held at the Mori Arts Center Gallery in Tokyo, Japan. It showcased works reflecting approximately 25 years of the artist's creative journey.
The exhibition also introduced commemorative merchandise, including keyholders, apparel, tote bags, and other collectible products.
According to the official MEDICOM TOY announcement, the five keyholder designs were released from July 16, 2021, with individual retail pricing of ¥1,980, including tax.
This exhibition connection gives the keychain collection an interesting place within the broader history of KAWS merchandise.
2. What Is the KAWS Tokyo First Keychain Set of 15?
The KAWS Tokyo First Keychain Set of 15 is a collection of five character designs presented in different colour variations.
The complete set includes:
|
Character |
Quantity |
Colour variations |
|---|---|---|
|
Companion |
3 |
Brown, Grey, Black |
|
Flayed Companion |
3 |
Brown, Grey, Black |
|
Chum |
5 |
Clear, White, Black, Yellow, Pink |
|
JPP |
2 |
Yellow, Black |
|
Accomplice |
2 |
Pink, Black |
|
Total |
15 |
15 keyholders |
3. Exploring the Five KAWS Character Designs
3.1 KAWS Companion Keychain
Companion is one of the most recognisable characters in KAWS's artistic universe.
Its distinctive silhouette, expressive body language, and signature crossed-out eyes have helped establish it as an iconic figure in contemporary collectible culture.
The Tokyo First keyholder release includes three colour variations:
· Brown Companion
· Grey Companion
· Black Companion
These variations make it easy for collectors to appreciate the same character through different visual treatments.
3.2 KAWS Flayed Companion Keychain
The Flayed Companion design presents a different interpretation of the familiar Companion character.
Its anatomical detailing creates a distinctive contrast with the standard Companion design, making it an interesting addition to the complete set.
The collection includes three colour options:
· Brown Flayed Companion
· Grey Flayed Companion
· Black Flayed Companion
3.3 KAWS Chum Keychain
Chum brings a colourful and recognisable character design into the Tokyo First collection.
With five colour variations, it is the largest character group in the 15-piece set.
The available colours are:
· Clear
· White
· Black
· Yellow
· Pink
The variety makes Chum an important part of the collection's overall visual appeal.
3.4 KAWS JPP Keychain
JPP adds another character to the Tokyo First merchandise lineup.
The two available colour options are:
· Yellow
· Black
These pieces add further variety to the five-character collection.
3.5 KAWS Accomplice Keychain
Accomplice completes the collection with its distinctive character styling.
The two colour variations are:
· Pink
· Black
Together with Companion, Flayed Companion, Chum, and JPP, Accomplice makes the collection a varied representation of KAWS character merchandise.
4. Design and Collectible Appeal
The appeal of the KAWS Tokyo First collection comes from its character variety, colour combinations, and connection to a specific exhibition.
Here are some notable features:
· Five character designs: A diverse selection of KAWS characters.
· 15 individual keyholders: Multiple colour variations across the collection.
· Compact collectible format: Approximately 2 inches (5.1 cm) in size.
· Exhibition merchandise: Connected to the 2021 KAWS TOKYO FIRST exhibition.
· Display potential: Suitable for collectors who enjoy displaying designer accessories and art merchandise.
The approximate dimensions and original release information are documented in the collector marketplace listing.
5. Why Is KAWS Merchandise Popular Among Collectors?
KAWS has developed a strong presence in contemporary art and streetwear culture. His characters appear across sculptures, paintings, toys, fashion collaborations, and collectible merchandise.
Several factors contribute to the popularity of KAWS collectibles.
Recognisable character designs
Companion and other KAWS characters have distinctive visual features that make them instantly recognisable.
Connection to contemporary art
KAWS merchandise connects art-inspired designs with everyday objects, allowing collectors to enjoy elements of the artist's visual world in different formats.
Exhibition history
Products connected to specific exhibitions can hold additional interest for collectors who enjoy documenting different periods of an artist's career.
Character and colour variety
The Tokyo First collection offers five different character designs and multiple colour combinations, making it visually interesting as a complete set.
6. What Should You Check Before Buying the KAWS Keychain Set?
If you are planning to purchase the KAWS Tokyo First Companion/Accomplice/JPP/Chum Keychain Set of 15, it is important to check the product carefully.
Here are some buying considerations:
· Completeness: Confirm that all 15 keyholders are included.
· Character variations: Check that the set contains the correct character and colour combinations.
· Product condition: Inspect for scratches, damage, discolouration, or missing components.
· Packaging: Ask whether the original packaging is included.
· Authenticity: Request clear product photographs and reliable proof of purchase or provenance where available.
· Seller reputation: Check the seller's history, policies, and customer feedback.
Remember that packaging can vary between listings. Do not assume that every set will have identical packaging.
7. Is the KAWS Tokyo First Keychain Set of 15 Worth Collecting?
For fans of KAWS and contemporary designer collectibles, this 15-piece collection offers an opportunity to own several character designs from the same exhibition merchandise release.
It may particularly interest:
1. Long-time KAWS collectors.
2. Designer toy enthusiasts.
3. Streetwear and contemporary art fans.
4. Collectors interested in exhibition merchandise.
5. People looking for distinctive collectible accessories.
The value of a collectible depends on factors such as authenticity, condition, completeness, demand, and market availability. A limited release does not guarantee future price appreciation.
8. Where to Buy the KAWS Tokyo First Keychain Set of 15?
Looking to add the KAWS Tokyo First Companion/Accomplice/JPP/Chum Keychain Set of 15 (2021) to your collection?
At ZeusKicks, we help collectors explore premium sneakers, streetwear, and distinctive designer collectibles.
If you are interested in this KAWS collection, contact our team to enquire about:
1. Product availability.
2. Current pricing.
3. Complete set details.
4. Product condition and packaging.
5. Ordering assistance.
Looking for the KAWS Tokyo First Set of 15?
Add an iconic collection of KAWS character keyholders to your collectible wishlist.
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9. Conclusion: A Collectible Piece of KAWS TOKYO FIRST History
The KAWS Tokyo First Companion/Accomplice/JPP/Chum Keychain Set of 15 (2021) brings together five distinctive character designs in one exhibition-related collection.
With its 15 individual keyholders, multiple colour variations, and connection to KAWS's Tokyo exhibition, it offers an interesting collectible for enthusiasts of contemporary art, streetwear, and designer merchandise.
Whether you are expanding an existing KAWS collection or discovering the artist's characters for the first time, this set represents a unique way to explore the creative world of KAWS.
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