Punu Rii

“Keep your feet on the ground and your thoughts at lofty heights’’

— Peace Pilgrim

Sometimes, as silversmiths, we are given the opportunity to craft something unusual; to sculpt something fascinating and different. Our work with the conservation charity Tusk has frequently presented us with such opportunities, and we are proud to formally announce the arrival of one of the most captivating creatures that have ever been brought to life by the skilled fingers of our workshop’s master craftsmen; the Rothschild’s giraffe.

Named after the city in Uganda where one of the last Rothschild’s giraffe habitats exists, Punu Rii is a vision in sterling silver. Whilst all giraffes are now classified as endangered species, the Rothschild’s Giraffe is extremely special - the most endangered species of giraffe on the planet, with a population of less than 2,500. Threatened by habitat loss and poaching, Tusk has helped to reintroduce these elegant herbivores to parts of their former range in Kenya, and is working to restore the habitat and wildlife in Murchison Falls National Park, which is home to a large population of around 900 Rothchild’s giraffes. Also known as the Baringo or Ugandan giraffe, this giant of the grasslands is distinguished by fuzzy edged dark patches with deep variation in colour. Their unique hide distinguishes them from the more common Reticulated Giraffe, and we sought to celebrate this uniqueness by bringing together a number of finishing techniques. For the sand base colour, we applied a high polish, before our craftsmen applied texture by hand, piecing together a jigsaw puzzle of patches through light and shadow. 

We’re dedicated to supporting Tusk so they can keep supporting innovative projects across Africa, as part of their mission to enable local African community leadership and conserve endangered habitats and species. If you’re interested in the valuable work Tusk are doing, please visit their website to learn more about their mission in Uganda and across Africa.  Our limited edition model Punu Rii will be appearing in our online store in the coming weeks.


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