Vintage Japanese Kuma Ki-bori Ainu Wood Bear Figurine with Faceted Chisel-Cut Surface and Open Mouth, Showa Era 1980s

Vintage Japanese Kuma Ki-bori Ainu Wood Bear Figurine with Faceted Chisel-Cut Surface and Open Mouth, Showa Era 1980s

A handcrafted wooden bear carving in the classic Hokkaido folk art tradition -- bold faceted chisel work, rich warm grain, and raw natural character.

A kuma ki-bori is a hand-carved wooden bear figurine rooted in the folk craft traditions of northern Japan, most closely associated with Hokkaido, where the brown bear holds deep cultural significance as a symbol of strength and the wild. This example is shaped in the classic walking pose -- head low, haunches raised, paws planted firmly on the ground -- a posture full of tension and naturalistic energy. The entire surface is worked in the distinctive faceted chisel-cut style, where each flat plane catches light differently, giving the figure a bold sculptural quality that sets it apart from smoother, more commercial carvings. The wood displays a warm reddish-brown tone with darker contrasting grain running through the body, suggesting a dense hardwood finished with an oil or resin coat that deepens the color over time. This vintage Japanese folk craft piece dates to the late Showa era and carries the honest marks of hand work that collectors of Japanese vintage folk art consistently seek out.

In a modern home, this kuma ki-bori makes a striking living room accent on a bookshelf, mantelpiece, or side table -- its sculptural geometry fitting naturally into wabi-sabi aesthetic or Japandi style interiors that prize raw, handmade objects over mass-produced decor. It works equally well as a nature-themed desk accent in a home office, lending warmth and texture to an otherwise minimal workspace. Compact enough to display anywhere yet substantial enough to command attention, it also makes a unique housewarming gift or a distinctive gift for collectors of Japanese folk art and vintage wood sculpture. The raw, unfinished underside visible in the images adds to its authenticity and hand-crafted charm.

• Origin: Japan, likely Hokkaido region
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa), circa 1980s
• Material: Dense hardwood, species uncertain -- possibly sen (castor aralia) or similar Japanese hardwood; oil or resin finish with warm reddish-brown tone
• Use: Decorative folk art figurine and souvenir display object
• Modern Use: Living room accent or bookshelf sculpture; home office desk decor; unique gift for collectors of Japanese folk art
• Features: Walking bear pose with head lowered; faceted chisel-cut surface throughout body, limbs, and paws; open mouth detail; bold contrasting grain visible across all faces; raw unfinished underside; aged patina consistent with Showa-era folk craft
• Dimensions: 8"W x 6"D x 4"H
• Condition: Good vintage condition; minor wear and darkening to underside and recessed areas consistent with age and handling; surface finish intact overall

A bold and authentic piece of vintage Japanese folk art -- this hand-carved kuma ki-bori bear brings natural warmth, sculptural character, and a genuine piece of Showa-era craft tradition into any modern home.

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.