Abagusii artisans in southwestern Kenya hand carve this useful cup from soft soapstone, known locally as kisii stone. The stone, which resembles talc, can vary in color from totally white to a soft cream tone with veins of red, yellow and black from various minerals that are sometimes present in the stone.

Several Gusii families supplement the household income by selling their soapstone carving. The Kisii Town community is the national hub of soapstone activity, and carvers sell their pieces to craft workshops around Kenya that then apply their own unique finishing touch.

This pencil cup and its complementary desk pieces are finished by Richard, whose workshop is located near Kisii. Richard excels at creating simple pieces that feature the natural beauty of the stone.

Origin: Kenya
Size: 4"T x 2"D
Materials: Soapstone, brass