The art of collecting Takashi Murakami prints, celebrated for their vibrant colors and unique fusion of traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern pop culture, offers both exhilaration and challenges, particularly when it comes to verifying authenticity.
At Lucky Cat Gallery, our passion for Takashi Murakami prints drives us to explore the nuances that define authenticity. This dedication has led us to discover patterns and insights crucial for any collector- insights we’re eager to share!
In this guide, we delve into the key details collectors should be aware of to ensure the authenticity of Takashi Murakami prints. We’ll explore the significance of the entities behind Murakami’s art, such as Kaikai Kiki Co., Ltd., and the galleries that play a pivotal role in his print distribution. Additionally, we’ll unravel the intricacies of packaging and what it reveals about a print’s authenticity, offer insights into understanding invoices and their role in provenance, and discuss Certificates of Authenticity (COAs). Our aim is to equip you with the knowledge needed to navigate the vibrant yet complex world of Murakami print collecting with confidence.
In the vibrant world of Takashi Murakami, a network of entities plays a pivotal role in the lifecycle of his art—from creation to collector. While Murakami’s ecosystem includes various contributors and collaborators, we’re highlighting key entities that collectors most commonly encounter, especially as they relate to Murakami’s prints.
While these are the main entities that appear on packaging and invoices for Murakami’s prints, it’s important to note that Murakami’s network extends beyond these. Other collaborators and initiatives play significant roles in various projects and exhibitions. However, for collectors focusing on authenticity and provenance, Kaikai Kiki Co., Ltd., Tonari no Zingaro, and Hidari Zingaro, along with the Kaikai Kiki Gallery, are the primary entities to be aware of, as their involvement often signifies an artwork’s authenticity.
Murakami’s print titles often vary, especially when translated from Japanese to English. This reflects the cultural nuances inherent in his work. When these works are translated for a global audience, minor yet significant title variations can occur, leading to confusion among collectors.
Additionally, some prints are based on earlier paintings by Murakami, leading to different titles for the same imagery. This is why the copyright year marked on the print is sometimes earlier than the actual release year of the print. The copyright year reflects the original creation date of the artwork, typically when it was first conceptualized or painted.
The packaging of a Murakami print is a strong indicator of its authenticity. Kaikai Kiki’s meticulous approach involves multiple protective layers: from glassine wrap to heavy plastic and sturdy cardboard, followed by two styrofoam layers, and finally, an inner and outer box. The print itself is securely attached to a heavy board with strong tape. An intact tape indicates that the print has remained untouched and pristine.
Within this careful packaging, a unique feature stands out for many of Murakami’s prints: step-by-step unboxing instructions. These instructions, often marked by numbered tape, guide collectors through the unveiling process, ensuring the artwork’s integrity is maintained from the moment it is received. This thoughtful inclusion enriches the anticipation and experience of acquiring a Murakami piece, underscoring the commitment to authenticity and collector satisfaction. It’s important to note that these instructions with numbered tape may not be present in some of the earlier print releases.
The signature outer packaging adorned with the Kaikai Kiki Co., Ltd. logo and fragile stickers designed with Murakami’s characters is a familiar sight for collectors acquiring prints that are brand new and sealed. This consistent packaging approach not only reinforces the artwork’s authenticity.
An exception to this standard was observed during the exclusive NTWRK release for the Black Lives Matter series, where the prints were shipped in a different manner, utilizing flat brown cardboard without the typical Kaikai Kiki branding. This deviation highlights the tailored approach to packaging based on the specific context of each artwork’s release, though it remains a rare occurrence within the overarching tradition of Murakami’s print distributions.
Upon opening the outer box of a Murakami print, collectors will find an invoice document. Invoices for Takashi Murakami’s prints, primarily issued in Japanese with “納品書” (meaning invoice or delivery note) and the issuing entity’s logo, often Hidari Zingaro, are critical for collectors.
The presentation of these invoices varies:
Every invoice, usually written in Japanese, includes the purchaser’s name and address. However, the inclusion of address details is not consistent.
These invoices authenticate the purchase from Murakami’s galleries or associated entities and contribute to the artwork’s provenance. Preserving these invoices is essential for collectors, as they are integral to the artwork’s history and authenticity.
Certificates of Authenticity (COAs) for Takashi Murakami prints hold a unique place within the art collection sphere. Typically, Murakami prints procured directly from Kaikai Kiki do not accompany COAs, with notable exceptions for items acquired through specific channels like purchases from MOCA. As for official agents of Murakami, they seldom issue COAs for prints since their primary focus is on dealing with original art pieces.
According to Tonari no Zingaro, the official agents and primary sources for Murakami’s artworks and merchandises are Gagosian Gallery, Galerie Emmanuel Perrotin, Murakami’s galleries (Kaikai Kiki Gallery, Hidari Zingaro, Tonari no Zingaro) and the Tonari no Zingaro web store.
Collectors should consider COAs from third-party sellers as personal guarantees of authenticity rather than official documents.
It’s important for collectors to know that Lucky Cat Gallery, as a third-party seller, provides Murakami and Kaikai Kiki prints with a dedication to authenticity and collector satisfaction. While we may not offer COAs, our commitment to quality and authenticity stands firm.
At Lucky Cat Gallery, our dedication to preserving the authenticity and integrity of Takashi Murakami’s prints from Kaikai Kiki extends to our handling and documentation practices. We understand the importance of maintaining the original condition of these artworks, which is why we generally do not issue gallery COAs for Kaikai Kiki prints. This policy is rooted in our commitment to keeping the artwork’s packaging intact, respecting the artist’s and the production studio’s presentation of the work.
The meticulous packaging by Kaikai Kiki is designed to protect the artwork and authenticate its origin. Opening this packaging to access the print directly would necessitate removing the print from its protective layers—a process that could compromise the artwork’s pristine condition. Furthermore, the edition number, a critical detail for collectors, is not always disclosed on the invoice. To verify this information, we would need to fully unpackage the artwork, an action we take only upon a collector’s specific request.
Should a collector request the unveiling of a print to verify the edition number or for any other reason, we accommodate this with the understanding that it voids the option for a refund, given the alteration from the artwork’s original sealed condition. This process, conducted with the utmost care, is recorded and shared with the collector. Afterward, the print is carefully repackaged for shipping to the collector’s specified address.
We advise against the opening of the packaging, recognizing the value placed on maintaining the artwork in its original, sealed condition. However, we acknowledge the preferences of some collectors, including requests to ship directly to a framer or another designated location instead of the collector’s home. Our priority is to align with our clients’ needs while upholding the integrity and authenticity of the precious artworks in our care.
Our exploration into the world of Takashi Murakami’s prints has been both enlightening and exciting. Our attention to detail and dedication to preserving the integrity of each artwork reflects our commitment to providing collectors with the best experience. By sharing our knowledge and observations, we hope to enhance your understanding and appreciation of Murakami’s art.
Whether you’re just starting your collection or looking to add a new piece, we’re here to ensure that every aspect of your experience is as authentic and enjoyable as the art itself.
Visit our Takashi Murakami page to view available artworks.
Questions? Contact us today at hello@luckycat.gallery and we would be happy to assist you.
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