BE@RBRICK Series 14 Pattern (100%)

With Series 14, Medicom Toy continued its line of small collectible figures in 2007, in which each category follows its own design theme. In the Pattern category, the Bearbrick becomes a canvas for surface patterns. For this model, it draws on one of Japan's best-known ornaments: the karakusa motif, a winding arabesque pattern that many people know from the classic green furoshiki cloth. The figure thus combines the pared-back design language of the designer toy with centuries-old Japanese ornamentation.

The entire body is finished in a deep, rich dark green, across which cream-white spiral tendrils wind. The sweeping lines curl into small scrolls at their ends, branch out and run without interruption over the head, ears, torso, arms and legs. Even the hands and feet are fully printed, so no area of the figure is left undecorated. The matt surface gives the contrast between green and cream a calm, refined feel, almost like printed fabric. Because the pattern wraps all the way around the silhouette, you discover new lines and curves from every angle.

In 100% size, the Bearbrick stands around 7 cm tall and comes with the typical rotating joints at the head, arms, wrists and legs, which let you give it little poses. As a single from Series 14, it is a piece of Bearbrick history from the mid-2000s and an appealing addition for anyone who collects early series or specifically collects models from the Pattern category.

Precisely because the design gets by without a character template or logo, this Bearbrick fits into almost any setting: on the bookshelf, on the desk or in the display cabinet alongside colourful collaborations, to which its understated elegance provides a calm counterpoint. It is a lovely choice for lovers of Japanese design and collectors with an eye for classic patterns, as well as a stylish gift for people who appreciate the special in the details.