About us

Astrid Sulger is a Swiss-born designer living and working in Maputo, Mozambique. A former textile specialist, she is the co-author of the book "Makonde Masters," an introduction into the arts and crafts of the Makonde people.

Mission

It has become the company's aim to give young men and women the possibility to earn a living by learning a craft. Not many in Maputo succeed in finishing school or, if they do, have the proper connections to find good employment. The majority of the urban population fights for their daily bread by working in the informal market.

Craft is not considered a proper profession in this particular culture, as it implies a lot of manual work, which is not viewed as prestigious. Our clients' positive reaction, however, makes these artisans realize that their work is appreciated and has become a source of professional pride. Over the past five years, the company has grown to a team of 15 motivated individuals.

Company Overview

Having lived in Africa for over ten years, Astrid Sulger began producing a line of cow horn jewellery in mid-2005. The workshop is located in a township in Maputo, Mozambique.

The horn is derived from the Nguni cow, a breed well acclimated to the Southern African climate. The horns vary in size - some can measure up to 50 centimeters - and color. It is sourced in Maputo, and considered a recycled material.

The utensils used in its transformation are very basic. With the help of an adapted grinder and a trained hand, different shapes are crafted from the tip of the horns. After this first step, a long and meticulous process of hand sanding starts and ends up with timeless jewellery with a natural shine.