I’ve been thinking about Africa lately for three reasons. One, my step-father was on his 3rd safari; two, one of our good friends had set his sights on climbing Kilimanjaro; and three, I spied on our table an African carved bowl that is in our inventory of “interesting accessories” for sale. In my judgment, another “Fantastic Find”. Suddenly the triangle of occurrences gave birth to this blog idea.
The Snows of Kilimanjaro with Gorgeous Giraffe
What exactly is the mystique of Kilimanjaro? When John and I first heard that our friend was planning to climb this famous mountain, we imagined that this was related to the upcoming “important” birthday. You, know, the birthday that marks the beginning, or the end, of a decade. We imagined (putting ourselves in his place) that he wanted to prove himself still vital, making a statement that he would never forget. This decade-marker would go down in his personal history. Our imagined reasons for his trip may not have been true, but they sounded plausible at least.
Native Trees on the plains of Tanzania
Now to THE BOWL.
Fabulous Hand Carved African Bowl
I bought this covered bowl for our inventory, from someone returning from Africa. At the time I was designing a residential library and thought this would be an excellent accessory for the shelves. As the library plans progressed the room changed to a more formal attitude and other objects were acquired more in keeping with that formality. But I still think this bowl is wonderful. It occurred to me that anyone brave and strong enough to withstand the challenges of Kilimanjaro ought to have a trophy upon return! What better trophy than a hand carved African bowl, topped by an impressive bird for a handle, with elephants, giraffes, and rhinos carved on the sides, along with the native trees? What a memento this will be! A trophy for a returning warrior. Courage and stamina rewarded. Who has such a warrior in their family?
Giraffe, Rhino and Elephant with native trees
I love how the bowl shows so clearly the themes of native animals and native trees. See the relationship between these actual photos of the area and the carvings? Trees, giraffe, elephant.
Local Trees with Kilimanjaro
Elephants on the plains of Kilimanjaro
This carved bird is the handle of the lidded bowl cover.
Carved Bird Handle
Bowl made of native mahogany, with hand carved local animals and trees, and on the inside bottom of the bowl, a carved outline map of the continent of Africa. Size: 12 1/4″ overall diameter, 12 3/4″ high to top of bird. This bowl may be purchased for $450.00 – US dollars. Call or email us to purchase. (Plus applicable sales tax and delivery.)
Now don’t you just wish YOU had climbed Kilimanjaro? (Actual proof of climbing and attaining the summit not required for purchase – art appreciation is more than adequate.)
