Large Wooden Ainu Bear with Cub and Salmon – 1950s

Impressive wooden carving of a bear with cub, carved from a single piece of wood.

Dimensions: height 45 cm, width 42 cm, depth 18 cm.

The composition is strong and lively: the standing mother bear grips a salmon between her front paws, while the cub lies beneath her, as if they are hunting together by the river. The piece has exactly the powerful, folk-art character so typical of kibori kuma from Hokkaido.

The bold yet confident carving marks give the sculpture great rhythm and depth. Especially in the fur, the heads, and the fish, they create a beautiful interplay between detail and mass. The dark, timeworn patina enhances its sculptural quality and gives the work real presence.

A particularly decorative and authentic piece that stands out immediately in an interior, whether displayed as a sculptural object on its own or as part of a collection of Japanese folk art or vintage wooden carvings.

Unsigned. In good condition in proportion to its age, with normal signs of age and use.