I'm posting this as a community service for a former neighbor of Masa's who boiught it in the late 1990s.  I have no stake in the sale so contact the seller directly.  Masa is a master carver and well known in carving circles. 

Larry Wade, 503-312-7745
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Seller:  Matt Bonazzola

Phone: 503-752-7302 (texting OK)

Location:  Sherwood, OR

Asking price: $1,000 (the late 90's purchase price was $300 so consider inflation and appreciation for a limited edition work of art. Google says the inflation-adjusted purchase price would be about $600 in today's dollars.) 

It is carved out of Black Walnut.  The seller was a former neighbor, bought it in the late 1990s, has some health issues, and reluctantly needs to sell it. His message to me said, "I have health situations that impel me to want to sell his gorgeous work."

He sent the club an email requesting our help.  I want to help him as well as indirectly help Masa preserve one of his important creations.

Here's what I understand.  It was carved out of Black Walnut.  The seller was a former neighbor, bought it in the late 1990s, has some health issues, and reluctantly needs to sell it. His message to me said, "I have health situations that impel me to want to sell his gorgeous work."

The size is 12" long by 6" high, and is considered to be in excellent condition.  The holes you see in the photo of the bear's belly were made by Masa as part of the process he used to slowly dry the wood since it was carved green. Zoom in on one of the photos to see the hair detail.

Masa carved a series of these small bears in the 1990s as he assimilated as a new immigrant.  They took a lot of time, and he no longer makes them. Sizes varied a little depending on the individual logs he could use and were typically this size or up to 16" long. I assume the markings on the bottom of the paws are Masa's mark.

Another member of our club bought one of these about the same time and adores it. I'm pretty sure Masa would love to see it if you bought it, and would apply a new coat of the oil and wax finish that he uses since he has done this numerous times with other pieces of his work.