Monday, May 11, 2015

San-x: An Unsung Hero of Kawaii


Everyone knows Sanrio. But what about San-x?

Founded in the 30's, this Japanese stationary company started out with distinctly un-kawaii scenic landscape-themed wares. In the late 80's, the company launched their first popular kawaii character, called Pinny-mu, a cute little bear with a mouse companion:



It wasn't until the 90's release of Tarepanda that San-x characters really began to gain great popularity. Today, Tarepanda has been joined by Rilakkuma and Mamegoma, and together, these three form the backbone of the San-x Character universe, though I have a special fondness for the slightly gothic "Sentimental Circus" designs myself.

San-x, I salute you!

No comments:

Post a Comment