"It always seems impossible until it's done."

Beautifully screen printed, this statement tote bag showcases Nelson Mandela's quotation, "It always seems impossible until it's done."

Size: 13.5"L x 4"W x 15"T (to top of bag), 24"T (to top of handles). Sold singly. Because this is a handcrafted item, each will vary slightly.

About the Artisans:

At Yda Walt Studios in Johannesburg, South Africa, talented owner/designer Yda Walt and a small team of artisans dream up inspirational products centered on South African life and ethos.

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Crafted by Karenni refugees living in Thailand, this sweet songbird ornament is created by stitching together hand-loomed weavings of fabric to give a voice to the craft of the artisans.

Each ornament is individually packaged and ready for gift-giving in a MADE51 box, complete with an artisan story card.

Size: 2.15" x 3" x 1.4"

Materials: Handwoven fabric, felt, thread and faux leather.

Note: These products are handmade and there will be slight variations in shape, size, and color.

About the Artisans:

"Refugees have skills and talents that only need a chance to grow and flourish. Within each piece lies a story of history and culture, and the chance for a person who has fled war and persecution to offer something of beauty and style to the world." - Filippo Grandi, UN High Commissioner for Refugees

MADE51 is a global initiative brought to life by UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency. Each ornament in the MADE51 Holiday Collection tells a story about the cultural heritage of its maker. These beautiful crafts are windows into the diversity and talent of refugee artisans around the world. They fill homes with meaning, as symbols of solidarity, empowerment and hope.

Photo (c) UNHCR.

Featuring a navy checkerboard diamond pattern, these limited edition navy elephant grass Bolga baskets are perfect to hold houseplants or to create beautiful storage. Handwoven out of stiff elephant grass, these eco-conscious and indispensable planter baskets stand the test of time and can also be easily cleaned and re-shaped with water.

 Limited edition, only one remaining available in this style.

B: Measures 19" wide (12" width opening), 13" tall.

Perfect for your favorite chef or baker, these indispensable bowls are wonderful for holding spices and ingredients while cooking. The bowls can also double for holding dips or household items. Each bowl is hand-carved from solid olive wood and rests easily in the hand.

The Kamba carvers who craft these bowls travel into the bush in groups for safety and set up a makeshift camp at the site of the felled tree. Together, the carvers sit down and rough in the basic carving for items on their respective orders. Having a variety of items to work on allows the carvers to better utilize the tree. From large items like these bowls down to small pieces like earrings, the carvers hew a collection of beautiful shapes.

Dimensions:
Large bowl measures 4"D x 2"T
Medium bowl measures 3"D x 1.5"T
Small bowl measures 2.5"D x 1.25"T

Made from: olive wood. 

About the Artisans:

We work with representatives of Kamba artists in Kenya to obtain these hand-carved works of beauty derived from the olive wood tree. The artisans benefit greatly from the sale of their works, with marked improvements being seen for the individual, their families, the community.

Sixteen strands of cinnamon and fuchsia Zulugrass are used to create this Multi-Strand Bracelet. Each bracelet features strong elastic between the two fallen acacia wood beads, designed to roll over your hand and wrist.

Size: 2.25" inner diameter. One size fits most. Check out the matching Multi-Strand Necklace. Zulugrass strands are made from sustainable, natural grass beads, dyed with colorfast, low-impact dyes and interspersed with hand-blown Czech glass. Due to the handmade nature of this item, slight variation is expected.

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Kenya artisans hand-carve this beautiful salad bowl from wild olive wood. Sanded to a smooth finish, each food-safe bowl has a unique pattern created by the natural grain of the wood.

Due to the handcrafted nature of this item, slight variation may occur. Hand wash.

Dimensions: 9"D x 3.5"H

Crafted from: Wild olive wood

Made in: Kenya

About the Artisans:

We work with representatives of Kamba artists in Kenya to obtain these hand-carved works of beauty derived from the olive wood tree. The artisans benefit greatly from the sale of olive wood products, with marked improvements being seen for the individual, their families, the community. The olive wood tree is sacred to Kenyans and appreciated worldwide for its beautiful grain patterns and durability.

Perfect for small storage, these modern African baskets are woven using sustainable natural grasses and thin strips of plastic, upcycled from the local Senegalese prayer mat factory.

Each basket features bright, colorful clouds on a white background, topped with a fitted lid with braided pull handle. The sale of the baskets helps support a network of rural Senegalese craftswomen and their families.

Due to the handmade nature of this item, size may vary slightly. Pattern placement will vary.

Dimensions: 8"L x 8"W x 8.5"H

Crafted from: Typha (cattails), plastic strips

Made in: Senegal

In Zimbabwe, sculptors weld recycled metal to create these lovely sculptures of colorful birds fluttering their wings. Each sculpture is finished with varnish to protect against the elements. Handcrafted items may vary slightly.

Choose from Yellow, Blue, or Red.

Each bird measures approximately 5"L x 6"W x 4"T.

About the Artisans:

Artisans at the Tonderai Metal Works in Zimbabwe use recycled materials and discarded oil drums to create stunning works of art and feature one-of-a-kind detailing.

This whimsical woodpecker sculpture, complete with a tab for affixing to the wall or a fence, is handcrafted in Zimbabwe using colorful recycled oil drums. Each sculpture is finished with varnish to protect against the elements. However, some weathering should be expected if the sculpture is exposed to the elements over a long period of time. Colors are assorted; colors and designs will vary.

Measures 5"L x 3.5"W x 7"T. Due to the handcrafted nature of this item, size may vary slightly.

About the Artisans:

Artisans at the Tonderai Metal Works in Zimbabwe use recycled materials and discarded oil drums to create stunning works of art and feature one-of-a-kind detailing.

This African tabletop nativity scene is handcrafted in Zambia by artisan Chrispen. The scene is created from paper mache that is then colorfully painted by hand. Features 5 pieces - Baby Jesus, Mary, Joseph, and 2 lambs.

About the Artisan:

Chrispen is a creative Zambian artist who specializes in creative village scenes in papier-mâché. He crafts the scenes from wire, then layers recycled paper to achieve the final shape of the figure, before hand-painting each sculpture vibrant colors and patterns.

Zimbabwean metal sculptors transform used oil drums into these vibrant patchwork fish sculptures. Each sculpture includes hanging hardware on the back, and is finished with varnish to protect against the elements.

Sold individually. Weathering is to be expected if the sculpture is exposed to elements over time. Because this is a handcrafted item, each will vary.

Small measures 6.5”L x 2”W x 5”H.

Medium measures 9”L x 2.5”W x 6.5”H

Large measures 11”L x 2.5”W x 7”H.

About the Artisans:

Artisans at the Tonderai Metal Works in Zimbabwe use recycled materials and discarded oil drums to create stunning works of art and feature one-of-a-kind detailing.

These vibrant heart dishes are hand-carved from solid soapstone in Kenya. The dishes are dyed to rich hues using natural plant dyes.

The dishes make great catch-alls for any occasion and are fair trade. Sold singly. Measure approximately 4"L x 4"W x 1"H.

About the Artisans:

Soapstone is mined in Kisii county in southwestern Kenya. We work with three different artisan groups in and around Nairobi who carve, polish and paint the stone to create beautiful pieces.

Using proceeds from the sale of this Compassion Zulugrass bracelet, The Leakey Collection supports the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Give a gift to someone in your life who has or is going through a difficult time. Each 26" strand is packaged on a special tag--explaining how the proceeds will be allocated--and can be worn wrapped 3-4 times around your wrist or ankle or even long as a necklace. 

Zulugrass 26" single strands are made from sustainable, natural grass beads. The richly hued grass is dyed with colorfast, low-impact dyes and interspersed with hand-blown Czech glass. Due to the handmade nature of this item, slight variation is expected. Zulugrass is as creative as the individual who wears it!

These flattering copper crescents add shine and interest to your ensemble. The copper crescent hangs from a sterling silver earwire.

Approximate Size: 1.5" long x 1.25" wide

Made in: Mali

Kenyan artisans craft distinctive spreaders from bleached cow bone and hand-carved wild olive wood. Each spreader serves beautifully and adds a cultural aesthetic to the tabletop.

Sold singly. Because this is a handcrafted item, each will vary slightly.

Dimensions: 6.5"L x 1"W x 0.5"H

Crafted from: Cow bone, wild olive wood

Made in: Kenya

About the Artisans:

We work with representatives of Kamba artists in Kenya to obtain these hand-carved works of beauty derived from the olive wood tree. The artisans benefit greatly from the sale of their works, with marked improvements being seen for the individual, their families, the community.

Kenyan artisans transform cow bone into eye-catching earrings shaped like hair picks. The distressed gray dye is echoed in a rounded disc and teardrop bead, divided by flat black plastic discs.

Sold singly. Because these are handmade goods, each pair of earrings may vary slightly.

Dimensions: 0.75"W x 4"H

Crafted from: Cow bone, dye, earring wires

Made in: Kenya

About the Artisans:

Talented Kenyan artisans take advantage of the natural and recycled materials available to them, including cow bone, to craft amazing jewelry. Bone is sanitized and carved into gorgeous shapes.

These gorgeous baskets, with their black swirl design against the natural cream raffia, are handcrafted by coiling raffia over banana stalks by Ugandan artisans. This functional art can be displayed on the wall with its raffia loop or put to use on the tabletop.

Sold singly, available in two sizes. Because these are handcrafted items, colors and patterns may vary slightly.

Dimensions:
Small: 10"D x 2.5"H
Medium: 12"D x 3"H

Crafted from: Raffia palm, banana stalks, natural dyes

Made in: Kenya, Uganda

About the Artisans:

Uganda Crafts 2000 Limited, a member of the International Fair Trade Association teaches basic handcrafting skills to rural & urban women and provides income opportunities for the marginalised and disadvantaged: people with disabilities, widows, orphans, single mothers, women with minimal education, and people living with HIV. They handcraft baskets using natural raffia wrapped over coils of banana leaf stems.

Measuring 70" long, these handcrafted table runners are created by weaving dried twigs through through hand-dyed mud cloth fabric.

Two lengths of twigs are used to create visual contrast. The fabric is a thick canvas that has been dyed using a mud cloth technique in Mali.

Dimensions: 16"W x 70"L

Crafted from: Dried twigs, cotton, dye

Made in: Mali

About the Artisans:

Mali Chic is a collaboration of 195 artisans that sells its products through a boutique in Bamako and through international exports. Artisans work from home, in their own workshops or on-site at Mali Chic.

"No matter how long the night, the day is sure to come."

Beautifully screen printed, fully lined and finished with a contrasting zipper, this charming flat pouch showcases the African proverb, "No matter how long the night, the day is sure to come." Accent stitching and a button detail complete the pouch.

Size: 8"L x 5.5"T. Sold singly. Because this is a handcrafted item, each will vary slightly.

About the Artisans:

At Yda Walt Studios in Johannesburg, South Africa, talented owner/designer Yda Walt and a small team of artisans dream up inspirational products centered on South African life and ethos.

The Leakey Collection's on-trend lightweight fringe earrings in shades of red utilize Zulugrass beads, Czech glass beads and brass wire.

Measure 2.5"L x 0.75"W. Due to the handmade nature of this item, slight variation is expected. Zulugrass is made from sustainable, natural grass beads. The richly hued grass is dyed with colorfast, low-impact dyes and interspersed with hand-blown Czech glass.

This sweet little hippo dish is hand carved from soft Kisii soapstone by artisans in Western Kenya, and finished with a vibrant crimson red and yellow sunshine design by artisans in Nairobi.

Sold singly. Because this is a handcrafted item, patterns will vary.

Dimensions: 4"L x 3"W x 1"H

Crafted from: Kisii soapstone, dye

Made in: Kenya

About the Artisans:

Soapstone is mined in Kisii county in southwestern Kenya. We work with three different artisan groups in and around Nairobi who carve, polish and paint the stone to create beautiful pieces.

These all-natural sculptures are wonderful for displaying jewelry or ornaments. Handcrafted from banana palm leaf fibers, each is distinct and beautifully crafted.

Sold individually, available in two sizes. Small measures 8"L x 8"W x 11"H. Medium measures 8"L x 8"W x 14"H. Due to the handcrafted nature of these items, slight variation may occur.

About the Artisans:

In Nairobi's Banana Hill suburb, artisans utilize the fiber of banana palm trees, which grow prolifically in East Africa, to create whimsical gifts for local sale and export. Geoffrey and George head up a group of talented creatives with a penchant for portraying nuances of African life through this sustainable, all-natural medium.

Crafted by Rohingya refugees living in Malaysia, this beautiful tassel ornament symbolizes the perseverance of the artisans through challenging times and their optimism for the future.

Each ornament is individually packaged and ready for gift-giving in a MADE51 box, complete with an artisan story card.

Size: 3" x 2.75"

Materials: Cotton Thread, Zari Thread, and Brass.

Note: These products are handmade and there will be slight variations in shape, size, and color.

About the Artisans:

"Refugees have skills and talents that only need a chance to grow and flourish. Within each piece lies a story of history and culture, and the chance for a person who has fled war and persecution to offer something of beauty and style to the world." - Filippo Grandi, UN High Commissioner for Refugees

MADE51 is a global initiative brought to life by UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency. Each ornament in the MADE51 Holiday Collection tells a story about the cultural heritage of its maker. These beautiful crafts are windows into the diversity and talent of refugee artisans around the world. They fill homes with meaning, as symbols of solidarity, empowerment and hope.

Photo (c) UNHCR.

Rural Kamba women in Kenya hand weave these open top handbags from tough sisal fibers and soft wool and attach leather handles. Stylish and durable, the perfect addition to any wardrobe!

Measures 14"T x 14"W at the base, and 20-22"W across the top. Due to the handmade nature of this item, slight variation may occur.

About the Artisans:

In the rural Kenyan countryside around the city of Kitui, women specialize in weaving the tough fibers of the agave sisalana plant. Sisal's spiky leaf clusters erupt from a dry landscape and often requires long journeys to gather. Once woven, these womens' totes are sold to local and international markets. Singing, dancing, and chatting make weaving for export an enjoyable social event!

Each of these beautiful baskets is handcrafted from date palm leaves using traditional methods by a rural Tuareg woman in Niger. They make wonderful additions to a tabletop, or adorning a wall. The date palm gives this basket a smooth and pleasing texture.

Sold singly. Because this is a handcrafted item, each will vary slightly.

Dimensions: 14-16"W x 1-2"H (size may vary slightly)

Crafted from: Date palm

Made in: Niger

About the Artisans:

These baskets are handcrafted by talented weavers in Niger using date palm leaves.

Featuring glazed porcelain hearts that are formed and fired in a specially built kiln at The Leakey Collection workshop near the Rift Valley, these sweet earrings hang on sterling silver wires. Handcrafted by Maasai artisans, each pair of Desire of Your Heart earrings has Zulugrass and sterling silver beads added to match.

Measure 1.75"L x 0.75"W. Due to the handmade nature of this item, slight variation is expected. Zulugrass is made from sustainable, natural grass beads. The richly hued grass is dyed with colorfast, low-impact dyes and interspersed with hand-blown Czech glass. 

These lightweight on-trend fringe earrings by The Leakey Collection showcase Zulugrass beads, Czech glass beads and brass wire.

Measure 2.5"L x 0.75"W. Due to the handmade nature of this item, slight variation is expected. Zulugrass is made from sustainable, natural grass beads. The richly hued grass is dyed with colorfast, low-impact dyes and interspersed with hand-blown Czech glass. 

This stately woman with her red dress and headscarf is cast in Burkina Faso using the lost wax method, which uses hand-formed wax to create a cast for the molten bronze. Each sculpture is completely one-of-a-kind, so color and shape may vary slightly.

Dimensions: 2"L x 2.5"W x 6"H

Crafted from: Metal

Made in: Burkina Faso

Our simplified African nativity scene features the holy family, an angel, and a stable animal all hand crafted from banana fiber. The set is presented in a beautiful handcrafted banana fiber storage box which can also be utilized as part of the scene.

Measures 4" x 4" x 2." Due to the handmade nature of this item, slight variation is expected.

About the Artisans:

In Nairobi's Banana Hill suburb, artisans utilize the fiber of banana palm trees, which grow prolifically in East Africa, to create whimsical gifts for local sale and export. Esther heads up a small group of talented individuals with a penchant for creating collectible works of folk art using this sustainable, all-natural medium.

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This beautiful bronze sculpture, cast from solid bronze in Burkina Faso using the lost wax method, celebrates the double blessing that comes to mothers of twins or two children.

A one-of-a-kind work of art, each sculpture varies slightly and beautifully celebrate the bond between mother and child.

Dimensions: 3.5"L x 2"W x 6.5"H

Crafted from: Bronze

Made in: Burkina Faso

This swinging bird decoration makes a cheerful addition to the home. A pair of wooden birds with burned details adorn the jacaranda branch seat of the raffia-wrapped wire swing.

Sold singly. Because this is a handcrafted item, each will vary.

Dimensions: 5.5"L x 2.5"W x 9"H

Crafted from: Wood, paint, wire, raffia

Made in: Kenya

About the Artisans:

Kamau is a talented carver and painter who specializes in bird art.

These unique spice bowls are hand-carved by Kamba people living in the bush of Eastern Kenya. The bowls are carved from the African olive wood tree, with special care being taken to retain interesting areas of the wood's grain and natural curvature.

Natural bone inlay adds a touch of Kenyan style. Two matching spoons are included.

Measures 4"L x 2"W x 1.5"T. Due to the handcrafted nature of this item, slight variation may occur. Hand wash for best care.

About the Artisans:

We work with representatives of Kamba artists in Kenya to obtain these hand-carved works of beauty derived from the olive wood tree. The artisans benefit greatly from the sale of their works, with marked improvements being seen for the individual, their families, the community.

These unique spice bowls are hand-carved by Kamba people living in the bush of Eastern Kenya. The bowls are carved from the African olive wood tree, with special care being taken to retain interesting areas of the wood's grain and natural curvature.

Natural bone inlay adds a touch of Kenyan style. Two matching spoons are included.

To care for this lovely natural serving piece, hand wash in warm water, dry and rub lightly with a coat of olive or food safe mineral oil.

Dimensions: 4"L x 2"W x 1.5"H

Crafted from: Wild olive wood

Made in: Kenya

About the Artisans:

We work with representatives of Kamba artists in Kenya to obtain these hand-carved works of beauty derived from the olive wood tree. The artisans benefit greatly from the sale of their works, with marked improvements being seen for the individual, their families, the community.

Kenyan artisans handcraft this fun spin drum from leather and wood, then add a colorful image of a peacock on one side, and peacock feathers on the reverse side. Spinning the drum creates an interesting visual.

Sold singly. Because this is a handcrafted item, each will vary slightly.

Dimensions:  12"L x 3.5"W x 1"H

Crafted from:  Leather, wood, string, acrylic paint

Made in: Kenya

About the Artisans:

We work with Kenyan artisans who have life-long training in the making of traditional African instruments such as hand drums and spin drums. The artisans craft each instrument from sustainably sourced wood and scraps of goat skin. After each instrument is constructed, Nairobi artists hand-paint the instruments, making each one-of-a-kind.

Kenyan artisans handcraft this fun spin drum from leather and wood, then add vibrant hand painted designs of a sweet zebra on one side, and colorful zebra print on the reverse. Spinning the drum creates an interesting visual.

Sold singly. Because this is a handcrafted item, each will vary slightly.

Dimensions:  12"L x 3.5"W x 1"H

Crafted from:  Leather, wood, string, acrylic paint

Made in: Kenya

About the Artisans:

We work with Kenyan artisans who have life-long training in the making of traditional African instruments such as hand drums and spin drums. The artisans craft each instrument from sustainably sourced wood and scraps of goat skin. After each instrument is constructed, Nairobi artists hand-paint the instruments, making each one-of-a-kind.

Kenyan artisans handcraft this fun spin drum from leather and wood, then add different hand painted designs to each side to represent day and night. Spinning the drum creates an interesting visual.

Sold singly. Because this is a handcrafted item, each will vary slightly.

Dimensions:  12"L x 3.5"W x 1"H

Crafted from:  Leather, wood, string, acrylic paint

Made in: Kenya

About the Artisans:

We work with Kenyan artisans who have life-long training in the making of traditional African instruments such as hand drums and spin drums. The artisans craft each instrument from sustainably sourced wood and scraps of goat skin. After each instrument is constructed, Nairobi artists hand-paint the instruments, making each one-of-a-kind.

"The world is truly round and seems to start and end with those we love."

Beautifully screen printed, this statement tote bag showcases Nelson Mandela's quotation, "The world is truly round and seems to start and end with those we love."

Size: 13.5"L x 4"W x 15"T (to top of bag), 24"T (to top of handles). Sold singly. Because this is a handcrafted item, each may vary slightly.

About the Artisans:

At Yda Walt Studios in Johannesburg, South Africa, talented owner/designer Yda Walt and a small team of artisans dream up inspirational products centered on South African life and ethos.

This luxurious gabi in gray and light blue hues is woven from fine organic cotton into two wide panels, then hand-stitched together by artisans of Sammy Ethiopia. Worn traditionally in pure white for religious services, a gabi is an expansive textile that can serve in many ways - as a wrap or shawl, a throw blanket, a tablecloth, or even tied as a baby carrier.

You'll find many reasons to love this heirloom-quality handwoven textile!

Measures 59"W x 87"L. Due to the handmade nature of this item, size may vary slightly. Color variation is an expected feature, due to the handmade nature of this item.

Care instructions: Hand wash with mild detergent. Hang dry.

About the Artisans:

The Sammy Ethiopia brand links the artisan skills of one of Africa's most ancient civilizations with American and European fashion know-how. The result is unique contemporary style that has already gathered fans from New York to Tokyo. A wealth of craft skills known in Ethiopia for thousands of years are applied to a style-forward range of fashion and home accessories to suit current global tastes. Collaborating with community organizations and cooperatives, Sammy Ethiopia creates employment to some of the world's most marginalized people in and around Addis Ababa.

Hand-carved from soapstone in Kenya, then dyed vibrant colors with etched details, these adorable little birds will add a fun decorative touch in the home or as gifts.

Colors and size may vary slightly. Measure 1.75"T x 2.25"L x 1.5"W.

About the Artisans:

Soapstone is mined in Kisii county in southwestern Kenya. We work with three different artisan groups in and around Nairobi who carve, polish and paint the stone to create beautiful pieces.

Crafted by Armenian refugees from Syria now living in Armenia, this natural wool sheep holds dreams for a bright future. Adorned with a colorful hint of Marash embroidery, these ornaments also pay respect to the resilience and heritage of the Armenian people.

Each ornament is individually packaged and ready for gift-giving in a MADE51 box, complete with an artisan story card.

Size: 3.25" x 3.15" x 3/4"

Materials: Felt and embroidery.

Note: These products are handmade and there will be slight variations in shape, size, and color.

About the Artisans:

"Refugees have skills and talents that only need a chance to grow and flourish. Within each piece lies a story of history and culture, and the chance for a person who has fled war and persecution to offer something of beauty and style to the world." - Filippo Grandi, UN High Commissioner for Refugees

MADE51 is a global initiative brought to life by UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency. Each ornament in the MADE51 Holiday Collection tells a story about the cultural heritage of its maker. These beautiful crafts are windows into the diversity and talent of refugee artisans around the world. They fill homes with meaning, as symbols of solidarity, empowerment and hope.

This visually striking 70" long table runner with its natural tones is created by weaving dried twigs through through hand-dyed mudcloth fabric.

Two lengths of twigs are used to create visual contrast. The fabric is a thick canvas that has been dyed using a mudcloth technique in Mali.

Because this is a handcrafted item, each will vary slightly.

Dimensions: 16"W x 70"L

Crafted from: Dried twigs, cotton, dye

Made in: Mali

About the Artisans:

Mali Chic is a collaboration of 195 artisans that sells its products through a boutique in Bamako and through international exports. Artisans work from home, in their own workshops or on-site at Mali Chic.

"May your choices reflect your hopes, not your fears."

Stash cosmetics, art supplies, or other small items in this sweet pouch from South Africa! Beautifully screen printed, fully lined, backed with a coordinating pattern fabric, and finished with a contrasting zipper; showcases the Nelson Mandela quotation, "May your choices reflect your hopes, not your fears."

Size: 12.5"L x 1.25"W x 5.5"T. Sold singly. Because this is a handcrafted item, each will vary slightly.

About the Artisans:

At Yda Walt Studios in Johannesburg, South Africa, talented owner/designer Yda Walt and a small team of artisans dream up inspirational products centered on South African life and ethos.

This stunning sculpture depicts a woman cloaked in robes in the loveliest shade of green. Her polished necklaces, head wrap, and assured pose convey a sense of nobility. A small group of talented metal casting artisans in Burkina Faso sculpt this beautiful and stately woman in green from recycled metal using a lost-wax casting process. Each sculpture bears unique characteristics that reveal the handmade nature of its creation. 

Sold singly. Because this is a handcrafted item, each will vary slightly.

Dimensions: 5.5"W x 5"D x 12"H

Crafted from: Metal

Made in: Burkina Faso

Kenyan artisans add sparkle to the holidays with handmade banana fiber and wire angel ornaments, adorned with shiny emerald green thread robes and sparkling wings.  Often hung in the home to convey blessings, the angels are a symbol of peace and love for all who behold them. Angels will come with assorted items in hand or clasped in prayer.

Sold individually. Due to the handmade nature of this item, some variation is expected.

Approximate Size: 2.75"L x 1"W x 8"H (to top of string)

Made in: Kenya

About the Artisans:

In Nairobi's Banana Hill suburb, artisans utilize the fiber of banana palm trees, which grow prolifically in East Africa, to create whimsical gifts for local sale and export. Esther heads up a small group of talented individuals with a penchant for creating collectible works of folk art using this sustainable, all-natural medium.

These lightweight scarves are handwoven by artisans from Sammy Ethiopia using organic, locally-sourced cotton. Woven in an airy terraced pattern, the edges of these scarves are finished with just a touch of fringe.

Measures 81"L x 21"W. Due to the handmade nature of this item, slight variation is expected. Fair trade.

Care instructions: Hand wash with mild soap. Hang dry.

About the Artisans:

The Sammy Ethiopia brand links the artisan skills of one of Africa's most ancient civilizations with American and European fashion know-how. The result is unique contemporary style that has already gathered fans from New York to Tokyo. A wealth of craft skills known in Ethiopia for thousands of years are applied to a style-forward range of fashion and home accessories to suit current global tastes. Collaborating with community organizations and cooperatives, Sammy Ethiopia creates employment for marginalized people in and around Addis Ababa.

These luxe throws are woven by artisans using cotton grown and spun in Ethiopia. The weaving process creates sumptuously soft, multi-tonal cotton with handspun texture. Each throw is finished with a hand-sewn center seam and hand-knotted fringe on each end. The Harvest Moon colorway features warm, earthy tones and neutrals.

Natural materials such as leaves, flowers, and coffee, along with textile dyes are used to produce each color. The environmentally friendly dyes are both AZO free and REACH certified.

Throw is made with 100% Ethiopian cotton and measures approximately 72"L x 47"W. Due to the handcrafted nature of this item, some variation may occur.

About the Artisans:

Sabahar is an Ethiopian company that produces uniquely designed, hand made cotton and silk textiles that are entirely handcrafted from natural fibers grown and processed in Ethiopia.

Kathy Marshall, a Canadian by birth who has lived in Ethiopia over 20 years, founded Sabahar in 2004. Her passion for preserving and celebrating the rich weaving tradition of Ethiopia, combined with her desire to create respectful and ethical work opportunities for marginalized people have laid the foundation for the company.

This impressively large lion sculpture is crafted from upcycled flip flops in Nairobi, Kenya. We work directly with a small co-op of artisans who collect, clean and transform colorful foam footwear into bold, modern safari art sculptures.

Each sculpture is one-of-a-kind; designs and colors will vary due to the recycled nature of the flip-flop foam used to make each unique sculpture. We have just 2 available at this time.

Measures approximately 25" tall x 40" long.

About the Artisans:

In Kenya, artisans convert discarded flip flops into one-of-a-kind art. Operating from a small Nairobi workshop, the dedicated group offers employment and creative opportunities while also keeping flip flop foam out of the landfills.

This tall, colorful giraffe crafted from multi-colored oil drums will make a statement in any space you choose! Each sculpture made from recycled metal is finished with varnish to protect against the elements, although weathering is to be expected if exposed over time. Because this is a handcrafted item, each one is unique; colors will vary, and size may vary by several inches.

Approx. 6 feet tall, measuring 72-78" T x 26"L x 8"W

Extra shipping fees are required for oversized items. Please scroll down for more information, and email us at info@swahilimodern.com with any questions.

About Shipping:

Shipping for oil drum sculptures requires a pallet and starts at $200. With freight costs increasing in 2021, we have seen costs as high as $400-$650.

After your purchase, we will work with a freight company to determine the exact shipping cost for the pallet to your location, from our warehouse in Oregon. We will contact you via email about the additional shipping fees.

We can also create this shipping quote at any time during the ordering process! Please email us at info@swahilimodern.com with your full shipping address to get started.

About the Artisans:

Artisans at the Tonderai Metal Works in Zimbabwe use recycled materials and discarded oil drums to create stunning works of art and feature one-of-a-kind detailing.