Hand-Carved Kenyan Soapstone Chess Set Board: 35 × 35 cm Pieces: 10–15 cm Condition: Very good, with light signs of use This authentic handmade chess set from Kenya was crafted by local artisans using traditional carving techniques and locally sourced soapstone – one of the most distinctive and valued materials in East African handicrafts. Each chess piece is a unique sculptural work, featuring stylised forms, expressive silhouettes, and characteristic African folk-art aesthetics. Material: Soapstone (Kenyan Kisii Stone) Soapstone is a natural mineral (primarily talc) quarried in the Kisii region of Kenya. Its key properties include: soft and ideal for hand carving; dense, smooth and warm to the touch; naturally ranges from light beige to deep brown or black; absorbs natural dyes very well – often coloured in red, brown or black tones, as in this set; polishes to a soft satin sheen. Kenyan soapstone is highly regarded among collectors of ethnographic and folk art because every piece is hand-carved and unique in colour, texture and form. Set Details Origin: Kenya Material: Hand-carved and polished soapstone Board size: approx. 35 × 35 cm Piece height: approx. 10–15 cm (size varies due to handmade production) Colouring: Naturally dyed in deep red and dark brown/black tones Complete set: 32 chess pieces + matching stone board Condition: Very good. Only light surface rubbing and minor signs of normal use. No major chips, cracks, or structural damage. Features Individually hand-carved pieces with distinctive African folk-art style: Kings – tall, tapering sculptural forms; Queens – stylised with expressive carved details; Knights – interpreted with carved horse heads; Rooks and pawns – geometric, solid, and stable shapes. The two sides differ by natural stone colour (red vs. dark brown/black). The board is also handmade, decorated with hand-painted squares and border patterns. Due to the height and sculptural nature of the pieces, the set serves both as a functional chess set and a decorative art object. Shipping Each piece will be individually wrapped and protected for safe international delivery. The set will be shipped with tracking.