These charming coloured round bowls are made from Kenyan Kisii soapstone and have been hand carved by highly skilled artisans. Each bowl has been hand painted and then etched. The Tree of Life Kisii Stone bowls are painted in vibrant and stylish colours, while the Tree of Life etching is symbolism that resonates deep with much of humanity. These bowls have a lovely weight to them and are cool to the touch. They really are special. These Kisii stone bowls are very versatile: a home for your keys, jewellery or a handy bowl kept on your coffee table. Lovely in the kitchen for dips or snacks. Kisii Stone is a type of soapstone found only in the Kisii region of South Western Kenya. Soapstone is an ideal material for kitchen ware as it is structurally dense and moisture clings only to the surface of soapstone and is unable to force its way inside, even under pressure. Soapstone, while soft (as stones go) is beautiful and tactile. The skill of the carvers and artisans is incredible, especially when you see first hand the tools being used. These Tree of Life Kenyan Kisii Stone Bowls are handcrafted by Art Safi, a registered self-help group in Tabaka in Kisii, Kenya. With over 40 artisans employed they are significant in raising the standard of living for local people. They also actively promote the employment of women in the soapstone industry. Symbolism The Tree of Life The tree of life resonates deep for much of humanity, being a motif in various world theologies, mythologies, philosophies and biological sciences. Whichever way you sway, it is an awesome tree. Achieving eternal life by consuming the fruit, holding together nine Norse worlds or representing the evolutionary divergence of all living creatures is all pretty astonishing. But how about this: The Celtic Tree of life symbolises the forces of nature are coming together in perfect harmony to maintain balance in the universe. Balance is Good. Specifications Diameter approx: 10cm Depth approx 1-2cm Bear in mind each piece is unique. Colours, exact sizes and depths vary. Not by much, but there is no Ikea exactness. We consider that part of the charm. Story Zuri Design was started 17 years ago by Helen Scanlan, who worked in Kenya and Uganda as a volunteer over a number of years. Helen saw the opportunity to alleviate poverty through the trade of handmade gifts and jewellery. Once set up as a wholesaler, Zuri Design financed a start- up workshop in Kibera slum, employing and training former street boys. Since then, Zuri Design orders have created work for more than 200 men and women in Kenya and Uganda, within over 10 workshops. Working so closely with people from slums in Kenya, means Helen has witnessed first-hand the hardship of living in poverty and the positive impact Zuri Design has within the communities, providing them with livelihoods so people can work their way out of the cycle of poverty. Read more