Soapstone carvings, also known as Kissi stone, are an exquisite way to accent your home with a smooth, eclectic look.  For centuries, people the world over have treasured African soapstone.  Ancient Egyptians and Assyrians brought soapstone from Africa to carve their beautiful sculptures.  In the 11th and 12th centuries the Norwegians used it to build cathedrals.  Because of it's ability to withstand extreme temperatures Eskimos have used it for cooking, and serving food, as well as keeping things warm.

The Gusii and Abigusii ethnic groups hand carve each piece individually.  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 piece is wet sanded and polished by hand.  To color the stone it is dyed then cut with the patterns desired.

All of this work results in the beautiful artwork worthy of any national museum or your private sitting room.