This box is handmade of soapstone or kisii, which is only found in the Tabaka Hills of western Kenya. The soft stone varies in color from cream to pink, and even black. Artisans carve designs on the stone with a kisu, a small knife and then paint the box with safe vegetable dyes. The box is decorated with cowry shells, once used as currency and still a symbol of prosperity.
The box and lid measure 3.75 square inches. Since kisii is a highly absorbent stone, the box should be for decorative use only.
