Abstract Kisii Soapstone Sculpture, Kenya, Mid-to-Late 20th Century

Abstract Kisii Soapstone Sculpture, Kenya, Mid-to-Late 20th Century

€65,00 EUR
Product Information

An abstract soapstone sculpture attributed to the Kisii carving tradition of Kenya, likely dating from the mid-to-late 20th century. The pale cream, pink and brown stone is polished smooth and carved into intertwined human forms.

The tall continuous silhouette is opened by a series of negative spaces, giving the sculpture a lightness that contrasts with the weight of the stone. Natural colour variation remains visible across the surface.
Context

Soapstone, also known as steatite, is a naturally smooth, talc-rich stone whose relative softness makes it particularly suited to hand carving. In the Tabaka area of Kisii County in south-west Kenya, local deposits have supported a recognised carving tradition, with the stone worked into vessels, figures and sculptural forms. Its pale cream, pink and brown variations are natural to the material, while its softness allows the flowing contours and openwork seen in this piece.
Measurements

Height 20 cm | Width 5.3 cm | Depth 6.3 cm | Weight 524 g
Condition Notes

Very good vintage condition with a smooth polished surface and natural cream, pink and brown colour variation. No chips, cracks or repairs observed.

Vintage and antique objects may show signs of age and use. Each piece is carefully cleaned before listing. Patina and original surfaces are preserved where appropriate, and minor restoration may be carried out when necessary.

For general information about vintage condition, see the FAQ. If you would like additional photographs or a detailed condition report, please contact us before purchase.
Care Guide

Dust with a soft dry cloth or wipe lightly with a damp cloth. Soapstone is relatively soft, so avoid impacts, abrasive cleaners and hard rubbing.

For more detailed guidance on caring for different materials in our collection, please refer to our general care guide.
Shipping & Returns

We ship from Germany to selected international destinations. Shipping is calculated at checkout. If your location is not listed, please contact us for a shipping quote before placing an order.

For deliveries outside the European Union, customs duties or import taxes are not included and may be charged by the destination country.

Great Britain: for orders under €165 after discounts, excluding shipping, please contact us before purchasing so that the correct VAT-inclusive checkout can be arranged.

United States: orders are arranged manually. Please contact us for an insured shipping quote.

Full details can be found under Shipping & Delivery and the Return Policy.
Full side view of the Kenyan soapstone sculpture showing the narrow profile and carved openings.
  • Full side view of the Kenyan soapstone sculpture showing the narrow profile and carved openings.
  • Full front view of the pale Kisii soapstone sculpture with intertwined abstract human forms.
  • Full left-profile view of the abstract Kisii soapstone figure against a warm reddish background.
  • Full three-quarter view of the carved soapstone sculpture showing its elongated body and multiple negative spaces.
  • Upper profile detail of the abstract Kisii soapstone sculpture, showing the smooth pale stone and elongated carved form.
  • Three-quarter detail of the Kisii soapstone sculpture showing the intertwined upper form and open carved spaces.
  • Close view of the rounded head and adjoining openwork on the pale Kenyan soapstone sculpture.

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