Vintage Japanese Ainu Bear (SKU: 25D-321-1) -

Vintage Japanese Ainu Bear - 1970s Showa Era (25D-321-1)

SKU:
25D-321-1
$80.00
IMPORTED FROM JAPAN
Dimensions: 11"W x 6"D x 7 1/2"H
Ship From Location: Berkeley, California
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Description

Vintage Japanese Ainu Bear (SKU 25D-321-1)

Hand-carved Hokkaido kuma wood sculpture in a powerful prowling pose

This vintage Japanese Ainu bear, or kibori kuma, is carved with bold, rhythmic chisel work that captures the animal mid‑stride. The sculptor has emphasized the powerful shoulders and curved back, layering short, faceted cuts to suggest a thick pelt and the quiet intensity of a bear tracking its surroundings.

Typical of Showa-era folk art from Hokkaido, the piece celebrates both the spiritual significance of the bear in Ainu culture and the rustic charm of regional mingei craft. Warm natural wood tones, glossy inlaid eyes, and the dynamic, prowling stance make this a striking focal point for a shelf, tokonoma, or curated Japanese art display.

  • Origin: Hokkaido, Japan
  • Era: Showa period, mid-20th century (vintage)
  • Material: Carved hardwood with inlaid eyes
  • Use: Decorative folk art sculpture; shelf or tabletop display
  • Features: Traditional Ainu kibori kuma bear; dynamic prowling pose; deeply textured fur carved with faceted chisel marks; expressive muzzle and ears; warm natural finish typical of vintage Japanese bear carvings
  • Dimensions: 11"W x 6"D x 7 1/2"H
  • Condition: Very good vintage condition with light wear and minor rubbing to high points consistent with age

A characterful Showa-era Ainu bear that brings the spirit of Hokkaido’s forests to any Japanese folk art collection.

 

As part of our mission to preserve and share Japanese craftsmanship, we offer antiques that were made not just to be admired, but to be used. These pieces were crafted for everyday life, and we honor their purpose by ensuring they can continue to be enjoyed and lived with today.

All vintage and antique 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.

Additional Information
size:
11"W x 6"D x 7 1/2"H