10 Oct 2019 African Stone Carving Art
As a handicraft collector I had always been fascinated most by the masks of each region. History of humanity says that the existence of the concept of mask is very old and each tribe holds their own belief in them. Accordingly the design, art work, craft and the usage had taken place with it and around it.
Kisii Soap Stone Carved Mask
Of all the types of masks that get crafted in various parts of the world, African masks are the ones that have fascinated me most for its mysterious history, usage, variety, design, art and craft. Here is some handful of interesting information for all mask lovers:
African masks are not just masks to show case in your living room but if you know the story around it, that makes it all the more interesting that why you should have them as a exotic craft collector.
This contemporary African mask embodies the mystique of the traditional African tribal mask in a contemporary display piece. Crafted from soft soapstone, mined from the Tabaka hills of western Kenya, our African soapstone mask is hand carved by the Gusii men of the Kisii community and hand painted by artisans in Nairobi.
Kisii stone family sculpture
Kisii stone is a soft, metamorphic stone found in large deposits in Kenya’s highlands. Gusii artisans are renowned for transforming the stone into beautiful sculpture. This Family Flow sculpture presents the connection between two parents and two children in gracefully flowing lines, and a deep black dyed finish adds a classic touch.
African stone carvings are an essential art of the traditional culture and art of the people of Sub-Saharan Africa. For instance, masks usually have a spiritual and religious meaning and they are used in ritual dances and social and religious events, and a special status is attributed to the artists that create masks and to those that wear them in ceremonies. During celebrations, initiations, crop harvesting, war preparation, peace and trouble times, African masks are worn by a chosen or initiated dancer. Other than masks, African elephant carvings are most popular art among art lovers.
Soapstone box from Kenya
In celebration of the universal language of music, Kenyan artisans adorn hand carved soapstone boxes with a stained black exterior and hand-etched musical staffs and notes. Our Melody Maker soapstone decor makes a thoughtful gift for musicians or music enthusiasts.
There are various types of stone carving. The artist from Africa started making stone carvings utilized for everyday use like stone carve business card holder, napkin rings, pen holder etc.
Craft Montaz have an exquisite collection of various types of African stone carvings. Explore the best of our collection and become a great craft collector!
By: Pushpita, a freelance writer on world handicrafts and lifestyle. Pushpita holds a Masters in English literature and is a rich media professional.