This exquisite piece of art is a rare Ainu Kibori Kuma Relief Carving from the mid-20th Century. It was crafted in Hokkaido and acquired in 1948 in that city. It has been in the same family since. There is not a signature or hallmark on the piece.
The Ainu people are indigenous peoples native to northern Japan. Kibori kuma is a Japanese rural craft that consists of a wooden carving of a bear (with or without her cub) with a fish in its mouth, most often produced in Hokkaido or Asahikawa.
The carvings are most commonly sculptures that depict a brown bear biting a chum salmon. But a wall decoration in the form of a relief carving, like this item, is much rarer. In fact, it was difficult to even find a comp for this item online. It not only has the beautiful relief carving but also a carved frame with a unique border pattern in the corners.
This carving is a must-have for anyone looking to add a touch of beauty and the rich culture of Northern Japan to their home.
There are minor nicks and scratches. Please see the enlarged photos for condition and size.