Outpost Original has worked for over 20 years with the same five groups of artisans from Mozambique for our ebony line. Mpingo, the Kiswahili word for African blackwood or Mozambican ebony, is one of the most prized hardwoods in the world, growing prolifically yet selectively in Mozambique’s forests. Crafted from sustainably sourced Mpingo wood by artisans living in Mozambique’s vast woodlands, our ebony pieces are both useful and beautiful. The unique lids of our stylish lathe-turned vessels are a chance for the carvers to showcase their exceptional skills. Differences in tone and slight imperfections confirm the authenticity of the materials and the unmatched craftsmanship of every vessel, making each one a true collector's piece. Due to the rarity of Mpingo and the time-intensive handcrafting process, our ebony wood vessels are produced in limited quantities, ensuring their exclusivity and value.