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.



Copyright (C) Aizu Museum, Waseda University 1998. All Rights Reserved.
First drafted 1998