Shona Stone Thinker Statue

In African culture the ability to think instead of reacting is essential for

the role of Kingship. This is why the thinker statue has become so popular in African artwork. 

Taken from the famous Auguste Rodin sculpture, The Thinker is depicted as a man in sober meditation battling with a powerful internal struggle. The unique pose with hand to the chin, right elbow to the left knee, and crouching position allows the statue to survey the work with a contemplative attitude. This piece is hand-carved in Zimbabwe by the Shona artists. The Thinker makes a perfect gift.

Click here to purchase your Thinker Statue today!!!!

Kalimba Gourd Thumb Piano

The kalimba gourd thumb piano is a signature African instrument. The one shown here is made in Burkina Faso; but thumb pianos are also made in many other African countries as well. Also known as a thumb piano, the kalimba (kuh-LIM-buh) is derived from the more complex South African mbira, and is played by plucking the keys with the thumbs of each hand whilst holding the gourd body in the palms.

This instrument is an essential part of life in most African countries. During festivals, weddings, and other major events the kalimba will accompany the singer for a unforgettable sound. The sound created is very melodic and resonant. The kalimba is made from a hollowed out gourd, and there are seven metal keys attached on the top. The metal keys are often times made of old spoon handles, bicycle spokes, or spring wire that was cut and hammered to the desired shape. Each key is adjustable so you can tune the instrument according to your preferences by sliding the key in or out. Our kalimba features:

  

• Solid wood top mounted on a strong, rounded gourd base
• 7-9 adjustable metal keys securely mounted on a metal bridge
• One or two holes in the top for amplification and resonance
• Durable handmade construction
• Imported directly from Burkina Faso
• Exact design may vary from photos to include wood-burned artwork on gourd.

Click here to order your very own kalimba today !!

Beaded Wire Animals from Zimbabwe

These beaded animal figurines are finely sculpted, intricately detailed, from wire and small glass beads by the Shona artists in Zimbabwe. Each piece is the culmination of many hours of highly skilled work, patience and dedication. These beaded figurines bear a striking resemblance to their counterparts that roam the wild. 

These unique figurines are created by men and women from the surrounds of Mbare, Harare, giving them a platform for their bead work skills, as well as the means to support themselves and their families.

Click Here To Buy Your Beaded Animal Figurine Today !

Giraffe Carved Painted Wood Animal Sculptures

           

The giraffe is an animal that brings to your mind the savanna-jungle area of Africa. These hand carved wooden figures are sure to add a unique, exotic touch to your home. They are small enough to fit on any desk, stand or table. Our giraffe statues are large enough to be noticed and admired. We have giraffes hand carved by artists in Zimbabwe and Kenya. Each of our giraffe statues pictured are unique items. No two will look exactly alike. Most of the artisans use the wood from the jacaranda tree to carve these beautiful statues then use paint for color.

In African culture, giraffe's are believed to see far into the future, and have the ability to reach things that are unreachable to others, communication, intuition, ability to remain above the fray . Some cultures believe that giraffes help us see our lives in a way that is both grounded and expansive and that in our longing to evolve spiritually.

                 

   

The giraffe is the tallest of all animals. They grow up to 18 feet high, with necks as long as 7 feet. Though giraffes may seem to some to lack grace because of their long limbs, their weight is well distributed within their bodies, and they are only vulnerable when bending down to drink water. Giraffes are able to go for long periods of time without drinking water even up to a month. 

Their long necks offer protection by enabling them to see very far. Their powerful bodies help protect them and their young. The giraffe’s strong body represents being grounded in physical existence and their ability to see symbolizes spiritual vision. 

                               Click Here To Buy Your Giraffe Statue Today!

Welcome To Our Blog

Welcome to the A Taste Of Africa blog! This blog is another way for us to keep our customers up to date on the latest store information. This blog will feature information on our store events, specials and product related news.

Our online store www.atasteofafrica.net had been recently redesigned . Check back often and let us know what you think of the new website as well! 

Who we are :

A Taste Of Africa specializes in African Art Sculpture from different parts of Africa. We have a large selection of artwork and gift items including stone and wooden sculptures, musical instruments, paintings, jewelry, and personal care products such as Shea Butter, Black Soaps and Perfume Body Oils etc.

Our artwork includes the world famous Shona Stone Sculptures from Zimbabwe, Soapstone and Wooden Sculptures from countries such as Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania, Senegal, and many more. Each item is handcrafted and unique. Our sculptures and other products make wonderful, one of a kind special gifts for any occasion. We carry gift items for any occasion and have prices suited to any budget.