Vintage Japanese Wood Carving of Ainu Bear Holding Fish, Japan, 1950

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Famously from Hokkaido and northern Japan, this large, intricately hand-carved bear statue with a fish in its maw is a … Read more Famously from Hokkaido and northern Japan, this large, intricately hand-carved bear statue with a fish in its maw is a traditional Ainu folk handicraft.

In Ainu spirituality, bears and other animals are considered vehicles for the divine. Bear sculptures, in particular, were also used to express gratitude to the animal for providing meat and furs long ago. These bears are popular souvenirs and gifts when traveling to Hokkaido and are commonly featured as centerpieces in tokonoma alcoves in traditional tatami rooms. See less