*SHIPPING OPTIONS VARY DEPENDING ON THE DESTINATION, PLEASE SCROLL TO THE END OF THIS LISTING FOR MORE DETAILS.
This listing is for a VERY SMALL wooden higuma from the northern island of Hokkaido. This piece was originally made as a holder for a miniature 50ml bottle of Nikka whisky. Suntory collaborated with local craftspeople to produce wooden bears that were carved specifically for different kinds of whisky. The whisky is long gone, so this piece is being sold simply as a holder for air plants, or to hold a small toothpick holder perhaps. Please check the measurements carefully before ordering. The miniature cactus may give the impression that the bear is somewhat larger than it actually is. **ALSO PLEASE NOTE THAT THE PLANTS ARE NOT INCLUDED IN THIS LISTING, IT IS FOR THE WOODEN BEAR ONLY.
The Ainu people of Japan first started commercial wood carving back in the1920s. Traditionally their carvings consisted of religious objects, however dire economic circumstances forced them to turn to wood carving for tourists. Their wares, particularly the Higuma bear carvings, became very popular as souvenirs due to their very realistic appearance. The Emperor himself acquired a Higuma bear made by a highly talented carver named Umetaro Matsui in 1938. Following this Matsui won many awards for his work, and gradually these ornate carvings became recognized as beautiful works of art.
Size
H.7.8cm (3”) x 10.3cm (4”) across x 6.5cm (2.5”) from back to front
Condition
It’s in very good condition aside from surface wear, worn lacquer, and some scratches and scuffing.
THESE ARE SHIPPING ESTIMATES BASED ON THE CURRENT GLOBAL SITUATION
**Germany, France, Greece, Spain, Poland, Austria, Slovakia, Lithuania, Slovenia: NO SHIPPING. Very strict and expensive packaging laws in place and we are not licensed to send products to these countries. We have no plan to register at this time because the process is in some cases very expensive and complicated, plus each country has its own set of regulations and application process.
**USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Switzerland, Norway: Airmail Small Packet (approx. 15-28 days). Combined shipping available up to 2kgs for Airmail Small Packet (please send us a message).
**Asia: Airmail Small Packet (approx. 15-21 days). Combined shipping available up to 2kgs for Airmail Small Packet (please send us a message).
**Central Asia, Middle East, South Africa, Brazil, Mexico: EMS Express 10-15 days.
**Russia: No shipping methods available.
