Antique Market , Gifts Under 200 , Homewares , New arrivals & Provider Gifting
Market Kibori Kuma Bear With Fish II
$110
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Scroll downBig, small, weird, and wonderful, we always seek animal figurines and crafts on our travels through the marekets in Japan. This trip was no exception; Tara found as many folk animals as she could. Each one will bring a bit of playfulness and joy to your home decor.
Details
Size: Approx. L19.2CM X H14CM
*As this item was sourced in an antique market it may show signs of character and age. If you have questions please email us at hello@providerstore.com.au
**As much as we try colours may vary slightly from what's pictured.
Story
Although we promised ourselves a couple of years ago that our buying trips would never again coincide with a Japanese summer, alas, it worked out that way because we have an exciting collaboration at the end of the year we needed to be in Sydney for.
We attempted to wake up early and reach the antique markets before the heat and humidity set in, although our long hours spent there meant it was impossible to avoid. Heat and sunburn aside, we found so many stunning ceramics, baskets, animals, and some truly unique one-off pieces.
Kibori Kuma Carved Bear History
Tokugawa Yoshichika, the 19th leader of the Owari branch, purchased a wooden carving of a bear while he was in, Switzerland; Tokugawa was traveling through Europe between 1921 and 1922.
After returning to Japan, Tokugawa traveled to the “Tokugawa Farm,” a farm in the town of Yakumo that was then part of the Owari Domain. Tokugawa presented the carving to the farmers, suggesting that they manufacture copies of it during the winter as a source of income. The farmers agreed, and the first sculptures they made were displayed at a 1924 exhibition of rural arts and crafts that was held in the town.
During a 1927 exhibition, a kibori kuma was awarded a prize and offered to Prince Chichibu. The following year, an exhibition of bear sculptures was held to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Yakumo. Through these exhibitions, the popularity of kibori kuma spread throughout the country; as many as 5,000 carvings were produced during the early Shōwa period. The production of these bears still happens to this day and can be found at craft fairs around Japan.
Origin
Kyoto, Japan
35.0116° N, 135.7680° E
Kyoto is a city where centuries of Japanese history, craftsmanship and everyday life exist side by side. Once the imperial capital of Japan, it is known for its quiet temples, traditional machiya townhouses, beautiful gardens and distinctive seasonal landscapes. From generations of ceramicists and textile makers to small family-run workshops, Kyoto has a deep appreciation for objects made with care, patience and respect for tradition.