Hand carved by artisans in Ghana, this elevated set of bookends blends traditional craftsmanship with modern design.
- 4.75" W x 7" H
- Sold as a set
- Carved from Sese Wood
- Stained using "soot", a Ghanian stain that gives the wood a rich dark color.
Due to the handmade nature, some size and color variation may occur
Behind the Design
Woodcarving is a time-honored craft in Ghana with rich cultural significance. Historically, the Ashanti Kings’ sacred wooden stools, as well as symbolic warrior masks and other ornaments, were all handmade by Ghana’s talented wood carvers. The Ahwiaa Wood Carvers Association carries on this legacy by continuing the practice of traditional wood-carving today. The carvers source wood from designated areas in a nearby forest, after which the trees are re-planted.
Native to Western Africa, Sese wood has been used by wood carvers in Ghana for centuries. The raw wood has a light color that lends itself to natural dyes, like the natural “soot” stain our artisans use to achieve a rich dark color.
The traditional soot stain used by our partners is a wonderful example of how waste can become something beautiful. Artisans gather soot and boil it in a basin until they achieve a smooth texture. The mixture is then filtered to remove debris and allowed to cool before being applied as a stain. Each piece is finished with a wax polish for a smooth finish.
Impact
The artisan sector is the second largest employer in the developing world. Yet the majority of artisans are women who lack access to export markets, business skills, and the financial tools needed to run successful, global enterprises.
We are dedicated to changing that by investing 100% of our profits into education programs for the women who handcraft our products and youth in their communities. Since 2007, we've provided over 1,100 artisans and 250 young people in Rwanda & Ghana with employment opportunities, entrepreneurship training, and consistent access to the global export market.
Care Instructions
Wipe clean or hand wash. Make sure to dry fully before using or storing.
Apply a light coating of food quality mineral oil every few months or whenever your piece looks dry. Let the oil absorb into the wood for 5-10 minutes before gently rubbing off excess oil with a cloth.
