In the Gikomba area of Nairobi, Kenya, men and women of the Kamba tribe carve these safari animal accents from olive wood. These workers are known as jua kali, a Swahili phrase that literally means “hot sun” but has come to describe those who earn a living in Kenya's informal work sector, such as street vendors, repairmen, and artisans in woodworking or metal carving.

Lucas heads the family-oriented studio, where many of the artisans work alongside siblings and cousins. “Only keen people and very skilled artisans are hired [to create the giraffe bowl] so that the animals look great,” he says. The giraffe and bowl are carved from a single piece of olive wood and each unique carving displays its own personality. Please allow for small variations due to the natural materials. For decorative use only.

6 3/4"W, including giraffe motif; approximately 5" diameter x 2 1/4"H.