Western Kenya’s Kisii tribe live in the rich agricultural highlands in Nyanza. In addition to farming crops like sorghum and millet and raising livestock on their lands, the Kisii have a strong craft tradition that includes basketry and soapstone carving. Soapstone is easy to carve and is quarried in the nearby Tabaka Hills. Intricate patterns featuring interlocked loops and cut-outs are a hallmark of Kisii carving style.

This small, ivory-hued nativity scene began as a solid piece of local soapstone, which the artist carves and polishes to reveal a representation of Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus under the star of Bethlehem. Please accept small variations in each hand-carved nativity scene.

Handcrafted in Kisii, Kenya, by members of the Kisii tribe. Approx. 5-6"H x 8”W.