🙈🙉🙊 Handmade Soapstone “Three Wise Monkeys” – Kisii, Kenya

15cm 6 inch in either light or dark stone.

Hear no evil • See no evil • Speak no evil
Symbolic wisdom • Artisan carved • Ethically sourced

This timeless trio of hand-carved soapstone monkeys offers more than visual charm—it carries a message of mindfulness, moral clarity, and cultural heritage. Crafted in Kisii, Kenya, where soapstone carving is both a livelihood and a legacy, each figure is shaped with care and intention by skilled artisans whose work reflects generations of tradition.

🪨 Authentic Kisii Soapstone
Sourced from the hills of western Kenya, Kisii soapstone is prized for its smooth texture, natural warmth, and subtle variations in colour—from creamy beige to soft rose and earthy grey. Each monkey is carved from a single block of stone, then hand-polished to reveal its unique grain and hue. No two sets are exactly alike, making each trio a one-of-a-kind expression of natural beauty and human skill.

✋ Handmade by Skilled Artisans
The carving process is entirely manual—chisels, rasps, and sandpaper guided by experienced hands. Artisans in Kisii often work in family-run cooperatives, passing down techniques and stories alongside tools. By purchasing this set, you’re directly supporting the artisans & their families.

🪨 The Art of Kisii Soapstone Carving in Kenya

In the lush Tabaka Hills of Kisii County, southwestern Kenya, soapstone carving is more than a craft—it’s a cultural legacy passed down through generations. Each handmade item reflects the skill, patience, and pride of local artisans.

⛏️ 1. Quarrying the Stone

• Soapstone, locally known as Kisii stone, is mined by hand using basic tools like machetes, chisels, and hammers.
• The stone is soft due to its high talc content, making it ideal for carving.

🧱 2. Preparing the Raw Blocks

• Extracted blocks are transported to workshops, often within the artisan’s home or community space.
• The stone is cut into manageable sizes depending on the intended item—be it a bowl, figurine, or sculpture.

🔨 3. Carving the Shape

• Artisans use hand tools—files, blades, and even household items like screwdrivers—to sculpt the stone.
• The initial form is roughed out, then refined with intricate details, often inspired by nature, animals, or cultural motifs.

💧 4. Sanding and Polishing

• Wet sanding with water and grinding stones smooths the surface and brings out the stone’s natural luster.
• Some pieces are polished to a high gloss; others are left matte for a rustic feel.

🎨 5. Painting and Etching (Optional)

• Many items are hand-painted with vibrant African designs or etched with symbolic patterns.
• Natural dyes or commercial paints may be used, depending on the artisan’s style.

🖐️ 6. Final Touches

• Each piece is inspected for balance, finish, and artistic integrity.
• Items are often signed or marked by the artisan, celebrating their personal touch and heritage.

Kisii soapstone isn’t just beautiful—it’s deeply meaningful. It supports local economies, preserves ancestral knowledge, and connects global buyers to the heart of Kenyan artistry.

🧼 Caring for Soapstone: Simple, Effective, and Long-Lasting

Soapstone is naturally non-porous, heat-resistant, and durable—but it does benefit from a little TLC to keep it looking its best, especially if it’s a handmade item like those from Kisii, Kenya.

🧽 Regular Cleaning

• Use warm water and mild dish soap with a soft cloth or sponge.
• Avoid abrasive scrubbers or harsh chemicals like bleach or vinegar.
• Dry thoroughly to prevent water spots.

🪔 Oiling for Richness

• Apply food-safe mineral oil or beeswax to deepen the stone’s color and enhance its natural patterns.
• Rub in with a soft cloth, let sit for 30 minutes, then buff off excess.
• Reapply every few months or when the surface looks dry or uneven.

🛠️ Handling Scratches

• Minor scratches can be gently sanded with fine-grit sandpaper (start with 220 and finish with 400).
• After sanding, clean and re-oil the area to restore its finish.

🔥 Heat & Impact Precautions

• While soapstone resists heat, avoid sudden temperature changes—don’t place hot items directly on cold surfaces.
• Don’t drop heavy objects on it; it’s soft and can chip.

🧃 Stain Prevention

• Wipe up spills quickly, especially acidic substances like lemon juice or wine.
• Use coasters or placemats under drinks and dishes.

Soapstone ages gracefully, developing a patina that tells its story and a little care goes a long way.

The story of how your soapstone item was created