Ainu Wood Carved Letter Opener

¥5,980


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: Japan Post has suspended shipping to the US from end of August 2025. The Tokyotique will resume shipping to the US once this service reopens.

  • Please note that since August 29, 2025, additional import fees apply to all commercial parcels entering the US.

  • Tariffs are not included in the item price and must be paid by the customer upon delivery.

  • Please confirm details with your local customs office.


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: Japan Post has suspended shipping to the US from end of August 2025. The Tokyotique will resume shipping to the US once this service reopens.

  • Please note that since August 29, 2025, additional import fees apply to all commercial parcels entering the US.

  • Tariffs are not included in the item price and must be paid by the customer upon delivery.

  • Please confirm details with your local customs office.