Vintage Japanese Carved Wood Bear Sculpture, Hokkaido Kuma Folk Carving, Late Showa 1966-1989 | SKU: 26M-751-1

Vintage Japanese Carved Wood Bear Sculpture, Hokkaido Kuma Folk Carving, Late Showa 1966-1989 | SKU: 26M-751-1

A boldly hand-carved kuma (bear) sculpture in the celebrated Hokkaido folk-carving tradition -- raw power rendered in dark, richly finished wood.

A kuma wood carving is a traditional Japanese folk sculpture depicting the brown bear, most famously produced in Hokkaido since the early Showa period. Craftsmen in villages such as Asahikawa and Tomakomai developed the style into a recognized regional art form, carving each piece by hand from local hardwood and finishing it with a dark stain or natural polish that deepens with age. This substantial vintage Japanese wood carving presents a fully modeled bear in a powerful forward-stalking pose -- head lowered, jaws wide open to reveal naturalistically carved teeth and an open mouth cavity, all four paws planted firmly on the ground with individually detailed claws. The surface is covered in fluid, flame-like chisel strokes that convey the thick fur of the Ussuri brown bear, while the rounded haunches and broad back are left smooth to contrast the texture below. The overall finish is a deep ebony-brown with warm reddish undertones visible at the mouth and along the flanks, evidence of the layered staining techniques used by Hokkaido carvers of this era. This is a handcrafted Japanese folk sculpture of considerable scale and presence.

Today this vintage kuma bear carving makes a commanding living room accent or study focal point for collectors of Japanese folk art and wabi-sabi aesthetic decor. Its bold, sculptural silhouette pairs equally well with mid-century modern interiors and rustic cabin-style settings -- placed on a mantelpiece, credenza, or low shelf it immediately draws the eye. It would also make a unique housewarming gift or a standout addition to any Japanese vintage collection. The naturalistic detailing and generous size give it the weight of a serious collector's piece rather than a souvenir, making it a conversation starter in any room.

• Origin: Japan (Hokkaido folk-carving tradition)
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Carved hardwood with dark stained finish; warm reddish undertones visible at mouth and flanks
• Use: Decorative folk sculpture; display piece representing the Hokkaido kuma carving tradition
• Modern Use: Living room or study accent sculpture; mantelpiece or credenza focal point; unique gift for collectors of Japanese folk art
• Features: Full-body forward-stalking pose with head lowered and jaws wide open; naturalistically carved open mouth cavity with teeth detail; individually rendered claws on all four paws; flame-like chisel-stroke fur texture across legs and body; smooth, polished back and haunches contrasting carved fur; deep ebony-brown finish with reddish undertones
• Dimensions: 14"W x 7 3/4"D x 9"H
• Condition: Excellent

A striking piece of vintage Japanese folk art -- this Hokkaido kuma bear carving brings raw natural energy and handcrafted character to any modern interior.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All vintage items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.