Ainu Cultural Artifacts
Two Tamasai
(necklaces)
50.0×7.0cm /55.5×11.0cm
Makiri are the basic knives used by the Ainu in their everyday lives. They
differ from tasiro, which are larger knives used for hunting or cutting
branches. Makiri are very important in Ainu life, and are used to put the
finishing touches on inau (prayer sticks) and ikupashui (ceremonial tools used
to offer libations). Ainu men usually wear a makiri. Various patterns are
engraved on the grips and scabbards of the knives. These patterns are unique to
Ainu handicrafts, and they are deeply ingrained in the spirituality of the Ainu
people. Makiri are worn suspended from the belt, often attached by a fastener
made of deer antler.
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Copyright (C) Aizu Museum, Waseda University 1998. All Rights Reserved.
First drafted 1998
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