History and Background information on Kente
Strip weaving has exited in West Africa since the 11 th century. In 1697, the Asantehene, the King of the Ashanti people, selected four towns including Adanwomase to travel to Bontuku, a trading centre in northern Cote D’Ivoire, to study the art form.
Once they returned, these apprentices began weaving for Asantehene. Over time, they created their own styles and designs, giving birth to the cloth that today is known as Ashanti Kente. Since that time Adanwomase has been a royal weaving enclave for the Asantehene, and home to the MFUFUTOMAHENE, the chief responsible for weaving traditional black and white kente Cloth for Asante royalty. The Chief is responsible for keeping the Sesia, a basket containing all the historical samples of Kente woven in Adanwomase. Kenteweaving is a complex art, and the unique and beautiful cloths are powerful cultural symbols and a source of pride for Ghanaians and African Diaspora. The cloth is worn and used by royals during ceremonies, and for worship, outdoorings, marriages and funerals. Kente designs chronicle local history and knowledge. Designs have specific names and meanings that reflect cultural values and historical events. To this day, Adanwomase carries on the centuries – old Kente tradition.
