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Solid wood bear,carved by a craftsman from the indigenous Ainu people living on the island of Hokkaido.marks under one paw of the bear indicating Shiraoi(city on the island of Hokkaido) Hokkaido.Japan,circa 1960-70.
Good condition.
The bear is highly represented in this region of Hokkaido because in the animist religion of the Ainu people, the bear is the most important spirit, the master of the forest and protector of all terrestrial life.
Ref: 1FWBAZN69G