About the bowls...

Years ago, Swahili enjoyed a wonderful relationship with Kromkloof Designs of South Africa, a company that crafted museum-quality salad bowls from teak and wild olivewood. In 2002, a tragic turn of events in the lives of the owners of Kromkloof necessitated the end of Swahili's relationship with the company and their beautiful bowls.

Today, one of the owners of Kromkloof has returned to business, and we are thrilled to again be offering his exquisite bowls. Anton says, "It was not a choice, but my passion to continue with the only career I know...in reality you need to be very passionate when it comes to doing business, understanding and facing all the challenges on a continent as diverse as Africa."

Each bowl is hand carved from teak or wild olive wood by artisans in and around Bulawayo in Western Zimbabwe. The shape of the bowl reflects its particular region in Zimbabwe. The raw forms are then transported by bus to South Africa, where Anton and his employees burn designs into the wood to create the finished piece. Of the burned designs, Anton says, "Each bowl is an inspiration, as the carvers work under severe circumstances to make each bowl a unique creation. We are inspired by their handiwork."

Anton also credits their natural environment for inspiration, stating, "Having an opportunity to live and work on a farm in the Waterberg Biosfhere is a unique experience, and you cannot help but be inspired by nature and her creation."