Details:

• These decorative beauties will liven up your tables.

• Diameter 19 cm

• Hand wash recommended

• Responsible production and fair trade ♥

• These beautiful plates are painted in Senegal, using the technique of painting under glass. It is a very delicate job, which requires a lot of concentration. The words and drawings are drawn in ink on the reverse side of the transparent glass plate, in reverse image from the original. The outlines in ink are filled with successive layers of paint: the design appears right side up on the unpainted side. The plates dry in the sun.

CSAO (Compagnie du Sénégal et de l'Afrique de l'Ouest) was founded in 1995 in Paris by Valérie Schlumberger. After living and working with local artisans in Senegal and West Africa for more than a decade, Valérie returned to her native France where she opened her first Parisian boutique. Her aim, to disseminate in France and Europe the fruits of the work of the best craftsmen and women in West Africa. In conjunction with the opening of the brand’s Parisian boutique, Valérie also created ASAO, a charitable organisation that oversees a number of social initiatives in Senegal.

Since 2012 Ondine Saglio, Valérie's daughter, has joined the adventure. Ondine has been able to revalue noble ancestral traditions such as embroidery. By organizing embroidery workshops, over 150 women create cushions, bags and other accessories which have now become some of the brand’s most recognisable products gaining cult following among trendsetters from around the globe.

Previously without income or living in demanding and precarious occupations, these women can now support their families with a regular income. They play with threads, materials and colours and are proud of the results produced through their rigorous work. They have the opportunity to work at home to look after their children, or in the workshop where they are able to socialise, exchange, communicate and laugh with their peers. Confidence in themselves has being gained and they take great pride in creating these special and unique pieces.