Description:

East Asia, northern Japan, Ainu people, ca. early 20th century CE. A personal knife used for myriad utilitarian tasks by the native Japanese Ainu people known as a makiri. The single-edged blade bears a thin spine that traces to a pointed tip, and both the wooden handle and sheath exhibit inversely corresponding triangles and foliate motifs. Suspended from a braided cord are a wood sphere, a bone sphere, and a conical pendant made from the antler of a Sika deer stag (also Japanese deer or spotted deer). Size (w/ sheath): 2.1" W x 9.1" H (5.3 cm x 23.1 cm); (blade): 4.3" L (10.9 cm)

For two examples of makiri as well as additional information, please see the Pitt Rivers Museum, Oxford University, museum number 1935.74.26.

Provenance: private California, USA collection, acquired prior to 2005; ex-Kodeo Sun Art

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#151338

  • Condition: Minor nicks and abrasions to sheath, handle, and blade, with light encrustations within some recessed areas, otherwise intact and very good. Nice patina throughout.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

January 14, 2021 10:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 24.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000