Serpentine Elephant Sculpture - Parent & Child
Where ancient Shona traditions meet serpentine stone, a tender family bond takes sculptural form.
Ancient stone wisdom in modern hands
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Complete the Set
More pieces from the same maker, shipped together.
ABOUT THIS PRODUCT
This hand-carved elephant parent and child sculpture emerges from serpentine stone, the treasured medium of Zimbabwean artisans for thousands of years. The stone's natural variations in black, brown, and green create a unique piece that captures the gentle bond between parent and child in abstract form.
Each sculpture is shaped by Shona artisans using traditional methods passed down through generations. Simple chisels transform raw stone into meaningful art, then sand and beeswax bring forth a smooth finish. Fire reveals the serpentine's brilliant natural colors, creating depth and character in every piece.
The elephant symbolizes wisdom, strength, and protection across cultures. This parent-child duo brings that gentle power into your space, representing the enduring bonds of family and the wisdom passed from one generation to the next.
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Across Africa, talented craftspeople carry forward artistic skills that, in founder Robbie Stewart's words, are often passed down through generations and represent an invaluable accumulation of knowledge and talent. Mbare calls itself a messenger of culture, committed to sustaining the spirit of Africa by sharing the beauty and integrity of African crafts with the world.
Robbie grew up in Harare, Zimbabwe, and has always appreciated local art found at roadside markets, in urban workshops and in the homes of talented craftspeople. Mbare was born out of his vision of providing lasting sources of income for people and communities outside of the formal economy, and the company says it has worked for environmental and economic justice for more than 27 years.
In the Shona language of Zimbabwe, mbare means a gathering of things, or marketplace. Based in Athens, Georgia, the company has always believed that Africa needs trade, not aid, and describes its pieces as made with heart and rooted in heritage.
• Dimensions: 7 x 2 x 8 inches
• Material: 100% serpentine stone
• Made in Zimbabwe
• Each piece varies naturally in color and stone patterns
• Fair trade sourced
• Handmade by traditional artisans
• Authentic Zimbabwean craftsmanship
• Display away from direct sunlight to preserve natural stone colors
• Clean gently with soft, dry cloth to maintain beeswax finish
• Handle with care as natural stone can chip if dropped
• Store in stable location away from high traffic areas
Q: What is serpentine stone and why is it special?
A: Serpentine is the traditional stone of Zimbabwean sculpture, prized for its workability and natural color variations. The Shona people have carved this stone for thousands of years, creating some of the world's finest stone art.
Q: How are these elephant sculptures made?
A: Each sculpture is hand carved using simple chisels, just as Shona artisans have done for millennia. After carving, the piece is polished with sand and beeswax, then heated over fire to bring out the stone's brilliant natural colors.
Q: What does the elephant symbolize in this sculpture?
A: Elephants represent strength, wisdom, dignity, and family bonds across many cultures. This parent-child pairing specifically celebrates the protective love and wisdom passed between generations.
Q: Will my sculpture look exactly like the photo?
A: Each piece is uniquely hand carved with natural stone variations in color and pattern. Your sculpture will be similar in form but beautifully unique in its specific stone characteristics.
Q: How do I know this supports the artisan community?
A: This sculpture is sourced through fair trade practices that ensure artisans receive fair compensation for their traditional craft skills and cultural knowledge.
Q: Is this suitable for outdoor display?
A: This sculpture is best suited for indoor display to protect the natural stone and preserve the beeswax finish from weather exposure.
Q: What makes Shona sculpture special?
A: The Shona tribe, meaning "house of stone," are considered among the world's finest sculptors. They maintain ancient techniques of selecting, quarrying, and carving stone using traditional methods passed down through generations.
THE EVER GOOD
The Maker’s Circle represents the heart of what we believe in. Our 10 guiding values reflect how we curate, connect, and celebrate the people behind the goods within our slow living community. These are the values our makers strive for.
- Slow Living Values – Purpose driven, intentional creation
- Transparent Sourcing – Honest origins and clear practices
- Safe Materials – Non toxic, body safe, and eco friendly
- Small Batch Crafted – Made in limited quantities with care
- Handmade Quality – Human touch and artisan skill in every detail
- Timeless Craftsmanship – Enduring beauty and thoughtful function
- Ethical Production – Fair labor and responsible practices
- Sustainable Practices – Respect for nature at every stage
- Positive Energy – Made with love, gratitude, and good intention
- Conscious Packaging – Minimal, recyclable, or biodegradable materials
Each item ships directly from the maker’s workshop or studio. You may receive multiple packages, each crafted and packed by the artisans themselves.
We want you to love what you ordered, but we understand returns happen. Most items can be returned within 30 days if unused and in original condition. Some makers have unique return policies, which we honor respectfully.
See full details here: Refund Policy
HEALTH DISCLAIMER: The Ever Good is not a healthcare provider and does not offer medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Product details and ingredient information are provided by the makers, and The Ever Good is not responsible for their claims. Our guiding values are for general inspiration and selection purposes only. Always consult a qualified professional regarding any health-related concerns.
