1950s Japanese Ainu Hand-Carved Wood Figures, Hokkaidō, Pair

Details

Description

A matched pair of mid-century Japanese Ainu folk figures, hand carved in Hokkaidō and depicting a man and woman in … Read more A matched pair of mid-century Japanese Ainu folk figures, hand carved in Hokkaidō and depicting a man and woman in traditional dress. Acquired in Japan between 1958 and 1961 by the original owner while stationed there, the pair has remained with the family since purchase, providing unusually strong direct provenance for this category.

Each figure is carved from solid wood with deeply modelled facial features, hands, clothing and hair. The male figure is particularly expressive, with an elaborate beard composed of individually defined locks, while both figures display strongly carved garment folds and substantial three-dimensional modelling. Their dark brown-black surfaces reveal reddish-brown highlights through the finish, complemented by gold-coloured geometric detailing to the hats.

At 11.25 inches high and 3.11 lb combined, the pair has considerable sculptural presence. The figures were conceived as complementary male and female forms and retain strong visual unity as a matched set, making them particularly effective as Japanese folk sculpture and mid-century decorative art.


Measurements: 11.25 in H × 4.25 in W × 3.5 in D each

Weight: 3.11 lb combined

Style: Japanese Folk Art, Ainu Folk Art, Traditional Japanese

Origin: Hokkaidō, Japan

Age: Circa 1958–1961 See less