Bari bear – the emblem of Berwick-upon-Tweed
Your potted history lesson for the day: A brown bear has been associated with the town of Berwick-upon-Tweed since at least the 13th century when it was used on the seal of the Berwick Guild of Freemen. The seal featured a bear and a tree (specifically, a wych elm) - a Medieval joke on the town's name - 'Bear - wych'. Wych elm and brown bears are carved into the pediment of the 18th Century Guildhall and the Town Council still uses a version of the seal today.
Bari the Berwick Bear - wooden sculpture
Next to the Berwick-upon-Tweed Railway Station, you’ll find a carved wooden statue of a bear, who is affectionately known as ‘Bari’.
Bari is a Northumberland dialect word, meaning 'pretty'. The Northumberland dialect comes from Old English, which dates back to at least the 5th century, but interestingly, the term 'bari' actually has an additional influence from the Romany/gypsy. It came into use in Northumbrian towns like Morpeth, Hexham, Alnwick and Berwick because that was where there were often Gypsy populations.
Bari is certainly living up to his name at the moment, as someone has gifted him with some lovely bling! I particularly love the little earrings!
Illustrating Bari the Berwick Bear
I’ve a soft spot for Bari and have used him in two connected illustrations – a cartouche for a map of Berwick-upon-Tweed, which also includes a pen illustration of a Wych Elm; and my Colours of Berwick collection, where Bari represents ‘Bari Bear Bronze’ – a nod to the colour his wooden sculpture appears on dull days!
Shop Bari
You can now purchase prints of Bari bear from my shop!
Beautiful quality eco art print, inspired by the town of Berwick-upon-Tweed in Northumberland and, specifically, the Berwick Bear.
Original illustration of a local landmark hand-drawn in black ink combined with a bright splash of colour, for a modern twist.
Perfect as a unique gift or holiday keepsake.