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Antique Japanese Wooden Carving of a Bear / Hokkaido / 20th Century / Showa Era
$700
£530.18
€608.90
CA$980.93
A$1,066.47
CHF 565.44
MX$12,784.24
NOK 7,186.48
SEK 6,583.79
DKK 4,550.75
About the Item
This traditional wooden bear carving is believed to have been produced in Hokkaido between the early Showa period and the 1950s (circa 1930-1955). The humorous composition of the bear, carrying a salmon on its back, is relatively unusual. While the image of a wooden bear commonly seen in Japan is a bear with a salmon in its mouth, this different depiction demonstrates the artisan's ingenuity.
The culture of wooden bear carving began in the Taisho period (1912-1926), when Swiss woodcarving was introduced to Yakumo Town, Hokkaido. Local farmers and artisans began carving bears, and they eventually became popular tourist souvenirs. By the 1950s and 1960s, this trend had spread nationwide, with wooden bear carvings often displayed in the entryways of homes.
This piece is believed to be one of the oldest, featuring glass eyes, a characteristic of the early to mid-Showa period. The wood's surface has a subdued luster and color that evokes the passage of time, creating a charming, natural patina born over the years.
The bear's legs spread wide, in a dynamic pose, carrying a salmon on its back, exudes a sense of vitality, as if carrying a catch back from the mountains. Carved from a single piece of wood, the overall form exudes a dense, powerful presence despite its small size. The depth of the carving and structural balance suggest the work of a skilled artisan, even though the bear is unsigned.
The right front paw was once cracked and later repaired with nails (see photo for details). There are also small chips and scratches in places, but these, too, add to the charm of a time-honored folk craft.
This single wooden carved bear, embodied in the nature and human activities of Hokkaido, exudes a simple, charming yet powerful presence, blending seamlessly into modern interiors. It's recommended as an accent piece for living rooms, entryways, and studies, or even as an art piece.
Dimensions: W16.8 x D13.8 x H20.6cm
Item Number: SC142
Weight: 0.75kg
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We are a specialized team dealing in antiques and vintage items, comprised of stores based on three distinct brands. While focusing on Japanese items, we also offer a carefully curated selection of attractive goods from around the world—each evoking the culture and history of its country of origin.
Unlike the traditional Japanese antique furniture and art that have been appreciated overseas until now, we shine a light on the tools and furniture that were used for many years in ordinary Japanese homes and farmhouses. These objects have gained a unique charm over time, their beauty deepened by the history accumulated through daily life. In today’s world, however, many of these precious items are discarded during home demolitions. We are committed to reassessing their value and passing them on to future generations.
Drawing from our extensive experience—having seen tens of thousands of items through direct purchases, markets, and auction houses—we carefully select and present only the most captivating pieces. This is something made possible only through the years of knowledge and expertise we have cultivated.
Rather than focusing on the widely known facets of Japanese art and culture, we highlight the subtle beauty born from the everyday life of common people. It is this rediscovered beauty, steeped in history, that we strive to share with the world.
- Dimensions:Height: 8.12 in (20.6 cm)Width: 6.62 in (16.8 cm)Depth: 5.44 in (13.8 cm)
- Style:Showa (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:20th Century
- Condition:Repaired: There is a part of the right front leg that has been split and held together with a nail.
- Seller Location:Sammu-shi, JP
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU5487247051022
About the Seller
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- ShippingRetrieving quote...Shipping from: senzoku, Japan
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