Soapstone
For many centuries, people all over the world have used soapstone. The Egyptians and Assyrians brought soapstone from Africa to carve their beautiful, ancient sculptures.

Norwegians used it to build cathedrals during the 11th and 12th centuries. Because it withstands extreme temperatures, Eskimos have used it for cooking, serving, and heating food, as well as keeping things warm.

Soapstone carvings, also known as Kissi stone, are a beautiful way to adorn your home with a smooth, eclectic look. Made of soapstone found in western Kenya, the Gusii and Abigusii ethnic groups individually hand carve each of these pieces we carry. They first mine the soapstone from the hills around the village of Tabaka and then, using knives or handmade tools, the craftsman individually carve each piece. After the carving the figure is wet sanded and then polished, all by hand. To form the colors they dye the stone and then incise it with the patterns the individual artist desires.

Each piece is one of a kind, and the stone hue can vary between black and light brown with some tinged with red, others with blue or green.  Our stock is continually changing in the store, the photos below are examples of soapstone that we carry.

Coloured Kisii Soapstone:
We also stock the colourful Kisi Soapstone, including plates, bowls, candle holders, trinket boxes…the choice is endless.  An interesting gift for someone you love or just for your own home.