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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.