handmade treasures

Ghanaian artist Abdul Aziz Mohamadu has always had an affinity for art, often painting for friends and neighbors by request. It was with carving wood that his passions were truly piqued, and this joy shines through in this beautifully articulate figurine he names Ikenna, which is a Nigerian name. After carving the sculpture, beads of recycled glass and acrylic paint are used to add dimension and color.

Beautifully mysterious and enigmatic, this replica of the forest spirit mask bears the artistry of the Bantu people. They live in several communities that spread from Africa's Great Lakes region all the way down to South Africa. To the Bantu, masks with off-white faces represent the spirits of their ancestors and were often worn by dancers on stilts during funeral rituals. Working with sese wood, Ghana's Christopher Nyasafo faithfully replicates the mask in off-white, red and black featuring stone and cotton twine earrings. A second smaller face wears recycled glass earrings.

The colors of the beads and jute can vary slightly.

Richly veined grey marble contrasts with luminous white onyx, each color representing an opponent. The Sierra family crafts this mini chessboard and pieces from natural stone, polished to perfection. Small enough to fit in a backpack, handbag or beach tote, it is ideal for the amateur or aficionado.

Because each piece is sculpted individually, there may be slight variations in the color and pattern of the stone.

Black and white define a clear-cut triumph as opponents take to the chessboard. The Sierra family crafts the chess set from natural onyx and marble, polished to perfection.

Because each piece is sculpted individually, there may be slight variations in the color and pattern of the stone.

Turquoise stars enveloped in bursts of blue, green, and orange pattern this marble jewelry box. Worthy of your most precious keepsakes, this box is inspired by centuries of artisan stone work. Working in the parchin kari style, Indian artist Imran works colorful synthetic stones into cut marble to create this treasure.

Note: Since it is natural stone, marble tends to turn creamy in hue with time.