Caring for your Shona Sculpture

Your Shona Sculpture is more than just a piece of art - it's a sacred expression of Zimbabwean culture, hand-carved by artists who have inherited generations of wisdom and skill. These sculptures are made from local Zimbabwean natural stones such as Serpentine, Springstone, Opal Stone, Cobalt Stone, Soapstone and Verdite, each chosen for their unique energy, texture and colours. 

Each sculpture is completely handmade using traditional tools; The result is a one-of-a-kind creation that carries the spirit of the Earth and the story of the hands that shaped it. With just a little bit of gentle care, your sculpture can remain vibrant and strong for generations to come...


Everyday Care 

To keep your sculpture looking its best, dust it regularly using a soft, dry cloth or feather duster. This will help prevent buildup and maintain the natural polish of the stone. Avoid using water, cleaning sprays, or any chemical products, as they may affect the stones surface or wax coating. 


Polishing and Maintenance

Most Shona Sculptures are finished with a layer of natural beeswax, which helps to enhance the colour and shine of the stone. Over time, this finish may begin to fade slightly, especially in high-touch areas or outdoor environments. 

You can reapply a thin layer of beeswax or clear furniture wax every 6-12 months. 

To do this, place your sculpture out in the sun (along with the wax to slightly soften it), until it is warm. Use a soft cloth to gently rub the wax into the surface in circular motions. Then grab another soft, clean cloth and vigorously rub the waxed area so that it buffs up.

Work quickly to avoid the wax drying before you have buffed it, which may result in a streaky finish. 

It is best to wax and polish only a small area at a time, rather than the whole sculpture. 

This not only restores the sculptures glow, but also helps to protect the stone. 


Indoor or Outdoor Display?

Shona Sculptures are incredibly versatile and can be displayed both indoors and outdoors, depending on the type of stone. 

Hard Stones such as Springstone, Serpentine and Verdite are well suited for outdoor display. These stones are naturally dense and durable, able to withstand a range of weather conditions. That being said, for long-term preservation, it's best to place them in sheltered areas - under a verandah, in a covered garden nook, or somewhere else that is out of direct sun and heavy rainfall. 

Softer stones such as Opal Stone, Soapstone and certain forms of Cobalt Stone are more delicate and are best kept indoors to preserve their finer detailing and polish. 

If you live in an area with frost or extreme heat, we recommend bringing your sculpture indoors during seasonal extremes, or ensuring it is placed somewhere protected. 


A Final Note

Your Sculpture is more than a decorative piece - it is a living story, carved from the Earth with intention, love and tradition. By caring for it gently and with respect, you are honouring not only the material, but also the artist, the culture and the spirit behind the creation. 

If you have any questions or concerns when it comes to caring for your Shona Sculpture, then please email us at surrenderingtostones@gmail.com and we are happy to assist you.

Thank you for giving a home to a piece of Shona heritage. May it inspire you, ground you and bring peace and presence to your space.