NYWELE VASE ONYX
The Nywele Vase Onyx is a sculptural hand-blown glass vase that introduces bold contrast and architectural presence to modern African home decor. Created in Kenya by African artisan studio Kitengela Glass × September Collective. Inspired by the Bantu knot, it is the most structural expression of the Nwele form.
The anchor that gives a considered space its final point of gravity.
Where it lives beautifully
- On a light-toned console, the contrast is immediate
- As a standalone sculptural piece on a plinth
- In entryways where it sets the tone for a space
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Within monochrome or minimal interiors
Onyx anchors. It sharpens the elements around it and introduces structure where a room is missing one. This is what creates contrast; the piece that makes everything else feel placed with intention.
Nywele — Swahili for hair — is both literal and symbolic.
In this interpretation, the Bantu knot becomes pure structure. The raised nodes create a sculptural rhythm, defined through shadow rather than light. Where Umber holds warmth and Moss holds life, Onyx holds form.
A piece that reflects not just heritage, but authorship.
Hand-blown by artisans at Kitengela Glass using recycled materials, each vase is shaped without molds. The form emerges naturally through movement and heat. Each node is applied in real time, the glass cooling as the maker works, requiring control and timing that cannot be rehearsed.
This is the first in-house design by September Collective. A piece developed from concept to creation to reflect both cultural meaning and modern form.
| No two pieces are identical, because they cannot be.
Styling
- Style minimally. Let the silhouette lead
- Works beautifully without stems
- Pair with lighter textures and surfaces for contrast
Curator's note:
This is the most architectural expression of the form.
Product Details
|
DIMENSIONS |
Approx. 8.5"- 9' H × 5" - 5.5' W |
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MATERIAL |
Hand-blown recycled glass |
|
FINISH |
Deep Onyx Black |
|
ORIGIN |
Kenya |
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ARTISAN PARTNER |
Kitengela Glass |
|
DESIGN |
September Collective |
|
AVAILABILITY |
Limited |
This is not a piece you find. It is a piece you choose — and that choice says something about the home you are building.
Learn more about Kitengela Glass here.
Note: Each Nywele vase is individually hand-blown by the artisans at Kitengela Glass in Nairobi, Kenya. As with all handmade objects, slight variations in form, colour, and texture are a natural part of the process. The piece you receive may differ slightly from the images shown, and that is what makes it entirely your own.
Shipping, Duties + Handling
We’re pleased to offer you complimentary ground shipping on Canadian and US orders above $150.(excludes large-scale pieces)
Artisan Delivery & Care
Large-scale works require more than standard shipping. To preserve the integrity of your piece, each piece undergoes a specialized crating process from our studio to your home.
- Insured Studio-to-Door Transport: Full protection for your investment.
- Protective Structural Packaging: Designed to maintain the finish of statement-sized works.
- International Ease: For U.S. collectors, all duties and customs are paid by us. No additional fees upon delivery.
- Seamless Arrival: Arrives ready for immediate installation.
Key Details
Identification: Affected products are clearly marked with a notation on their specific product pages.
Checkout: A bespoke artisan handling cost is applied at checkout to ensure a secure, insured journey.
For further info, please visit our Shipping & Returns page.
For US Orders: Your order will be shipped DDP meaning the price listed includes all customs and duties. No extra fees at delivery. Ensuring your purchase arrives at your door with no additional costs.
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