Hand-carved Letter Opener with Bear Design
Vintage from the 1970s~80s
The Ainu are the indigenous people of Japan and based in Hokkaido, the northernmost island of the country
Wood carving is a traditional Ainu craft, often featuring native animals, human figures, and geometric patterns
These motifs carry spiritual and cultural significance, reflecting a deep connection to nature
This letter opener (or paper knife) features a carved bear design
In Ainu belief, bears are kamuy (deities) of the mountains who can travel between the human and spirit realms
The bear’s fur and meat are also considered divine gifts
While bears are often depicted in Ainu culture, it is rarer to find them on letter openers, making this piece particularly unique
(Listing is for letter opener - Stand not included)
SIZE (Approx.)
LENGTH 21.8CM (8.6") X WIDTH (of widest part) 3.0CM (1.2")
WEIGHT (without packaging)
9 Grams
CONDITION - VERY GOOD
Very minimal scratches. Overall very good condition.
Vintage, antique and pre-loved items may show some signs of aging or wear. Please inspect the photos carefully before making your purchase.
Please note colours may vary slightly depending on monitor settings.
SHIPPING
Free Delivery - please refer to Shipping & Returns for further information.
The Buyer is responsible for any import duties, taxes (VAT), or fees that may apply.
Bundle purchases may be shipped in separate parcels due to size, weight, or fragility.
⚠️ US Customers only
Since August 29, 2025, additional import fees apply to all commercial parcels entering the US and must be prepaid.
These fees will appear under "Shipping" at checkout.
Please refer to Shipping & Returns for further information.
Hand-carved Letter Opener with Bear Design
Vintage from the 1970s~80s
The Ainu are the indigenous people of Japan and based in Hokkaido, the northernmost island of the country
Wood carving is a traditional Ainu craft, often featuring native animals, human figures, and geometric patterns
These motifs carry spiritual and cultural significance, reflecting a deep connection to nature
This letter opener (or paper knife) features a carved bear design
In Ainu belief, bears are kamuy (deities) of the mountains who can travel between the human and spirit realms
The bear’s fur and meat are also considered divine gifts
While bears are often depicted in Ainu culture, it is rarer to find them on letter openers, making this piece particularly unique
(Listing is for letter opener - Stand not included)
SIZE (Approx.)
LENGTH 21.8CM (8.6") X WIDTH (of widest part) 3.0CM (1.2")
WEIGHT (without packaging)
9 Grams
CONDITION - VERY GOOD
Very minimal scratches. Overall very good condition.
Vintage, antique and pre-loved items may show some signs of aging or wear. Please inspect the photos carefully before making your purchase.
Please note colours may vary slightly depending on monitor settings.
SHIPPING
Free Delivery - please refer to Shipping & Returns for further information.
The Buyer is responsible for any import duties, taxes (VAT), or fees that may apply.
Bundle purchases may be shipped in separate parcels due to size, weight, or fragility.
⚠️ US Customers only
Since August 29, 2025, additional import fees apply to all commercial parcels entering the US and must be prepaid.
These fees will appear under "Shipping" at checkout.
Please refer to Shipping & Returns for further information.
