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Identify Authentic Labubu And Avoid Fakes
Labubu dolls are the most coveted collectibles today. The line of toys was created by Hong Kong-born illustrator Kasing Lung. In 2019, Lung entered into an exclusive licensing agreement with Chinese toy retailer Pop Mart to give life to the children book’s character as collectibles. Pop Mart released more than 300 Labubu dolls, priced from $15 for a three-inch vinyl figure to $960 for a jumbo edition. Its blind box retail model, which sells toys in sealed packaging concealing the specific character inside, added an element of surprise and exclusivity that lured collectors.
How has Labubu become larger than life? And where can one buy the real deal? The unprecedented success of Labubu dolls have seen the parallel rise of counterfeits. Per BBC: "In a sign of just how popular Labubus have become, Chinese customs officials said this week that they had seized more than 70,000 fake dolls in recent days." To preserve the value of Labubu and avoid getting duped into purchasing a fake, collectors need to understand the attributes that define an authentic Labubu doll.
How to identify an authentic Labubu
One of the first indicators of an authentic Popmart Labubu doll is its packaging. Popmart dolls come in well-designed, high-quality boxes that feature the Popmart logo and artwork specific to the doll's series. These boxes often include a certificate of authenticity or a tag that provides details about the release such as the artist's name, edition number, and the doll's unique features. Authentic dolls also have a holographic or embossed seal on the packaging that indicates its legitimacy. Counterfeit versions, in contrast, may have poorly designed, flimsy packaging without the branding or may even have incorrect logos.
Another key factor in identifying an authentic Labubu is the craftsmanship and quality of materials. Authentic Labubu dolls are made with attention to detail from the sculpting of the figure to the choice of materials. The surface of the doll is smooth and the paintwork is flawless, with vibrant colours that are carefully applied. The texture of the vinyl or resin used in these dolls is superior, offering a durable lightweight feel. In contrast, fake Labubus tend to have rough edges, uneven paint application or poorly sculpted features. These counterfeits often use cheaper materials that can be felt in the doll's weight and texture.
The design and uniqueness of the doll are important identifiers. Each Labubu doll is created with distinct characteristics, whether it's a particular pose, facial expression, or accessory. These design features are often the result of collaboration with well-known artists, and the details are crucial in distinguishing authentic dolls from fakes. Authentic Labubu dolls will typically feature vibrant, detailed accessories and outfits that align with the artist's style and the theme of the series. Fakes, however, may be poorly executed with less attention to the finer details, such as mismatched accessories or cheap-looking clothing. Additionally, Popmart Labubu dolls are typically limited edition and each doll will have an edition number that can be cross-checked against the official Popmart website to verify its authenticity.
Kasing Lung for Zara
Another important step in avoiding fake Labubus is to purchase them from Popmart's official channels including their website, licensed retailers and authorized online stores. These sources guarantee that the dolls are genuine and that buyers will receive the full Popmart experience including any certificates of authenticity or special packaging. Counterfeit dolls are often sold through unverified online marketplaces or third-party resellers who may not provide proof of authenticity.
Finally, the price of a Labubu can serve as an important clue in determining its authenticity. Popmart dolls, especially limited-edition ones, tend to be priced at a premium due to their artistic value and collectible status. If a Labubu doll is being sold for a lower price it is likely a counterfeit. Authentic Labubu dolls maintain their value because they are meticulously designed and produced in limited quantities, making them sought-after collectibles. If the deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
