Scroll on records of Ainu people.

Scroll on records of Ainu people.

Ainu-e

The typical Shiraoi Ainu house, entered through an anteroom in the west end, was laid out around a central rectangular hearth where most everyday activities took place. Family treasures were stored in the lacquerware containers along an elevated…

A wooden sculpture art resembling a dragonfly. "Hankucotca" means "dragonfly" in Ainu.

A photo of Haruo Suzaki, woodcarver.

A wooden artwork resembling a stag beetle. "I-kupa-kikir" means "insect that nibbles" in Ainu.

Iku-pasuy are traditional artifacts necessary for Ainu ceremonies and rituals. They are known as "prayer sticks" and dipping this stick in a bowl of wine was considered to be the way to communicate with the gods.

A tray with traditional Ainu patterns.