A royal cloth
Originally, the use of kente was reserved for Asante royalty and limited to special social and sacred functions. Even as production has increased and kente has become more accessible to those outside the royal court, it continues to be associated with wealth, high social status, and cultural sophistication. Historians maintain that kente cloth grew out of various weaving traditions that existed in West Africa prior to the formation of the Asante Kingdom. These techniques were appropriated through vast trade networks, as were materials such as French and Italian silk, which became increasingly desired in the 18th century and were combined with cotton and wool to make kente.
Weaving kente
Kente is woven on a horizontal strip loom, which produces a narrow band of cloth about four inches wide. Several of these strips are carefully arranged and hand-sewn together to create a cloth of the desired size. Most kente weavers are men.
Weaving involves the crossing of a row of parallel threads called the warp (threads running vertically) with another row called the weft (threads running horizontally). A horizontal loom, constructed with wood, consists of a set of two, four or six heddles (loops for holding thread), which are used for separating and guiding the warp threads. These are attached to treadles (foot pedals) with pulleys that have spools of thread inserted in them. The pulleys can be used to move the warp threads apart. As the weaver divides the warp threads, he uses a shuttle (a small wooden device carrying a bobbin, or small spool of thread) to insert the weft threads between them. These various parts of the loom, like the motifs in the cloth, all have symbolic significance and are accorded a great deal of respect.
– Pamela
Radiant Kente is a total feast for the eyes! The book showcases absolutely gorgeous kente cloth designs specifically for women. The photography is stunning and I found myself totally inspired by the vibrant colors and intricate patterns. A definite must-have for anyone who loves textiles, fashion, or African art!
– Â ToniÂ
Radiant Kente is a beautiful book! The kente cloths are stunning, and the pictures are amazing. I loved seeing all the bright colors and intricate designs. This book is perfect for anyone who loves fashion or African art.
– Â JennyÂ
Totally stunning! Radiant Kente is packed with vibrant photos of gorgeous kente cloth. The designs are so intricate and inspiring. A great book for anyone who loves fashion or just beautiful things.
– Â NicolasÂ
“Radiant Kente” is a total must-have! The photos of the kente cloth are absolutely stunning. Such vibrant colors and intricate designs. I’m seriously obsessed! Perfect for fashion lovers or anyone who appreciates beautiful things.
– Â ElnoraÂ
“Radiant Kente” is a seriously gorgeous book! The kente cloth is just stunning, and the pictures are incredible. I love how vibrant and inspiring everything is. Perfect for anyone who appreciates beauty!
– Â JoyceÂ
“Radiant Kente” is a serious showstopper! The kente cloth is just breathtakingly gorgeous, and the photos pop off the page. Such bright, happy colors and intricate patterns. I’m totally obsessed! A fantastic book for anyone who loves fashion, textiles, or just beautiful things!
– Â LeeÂ
“Radiant Kente” totally blew me away! The kente cloth is absolutely stunning, and the pictures are gorgeous. Such vibrant colors and beautiful designs – perfect for anyone who loves fashion!
– Â MacDonaldÂ
“Radiant Kente” is a visual stunner! The kente cloth is just gorgeous, and the photos are amazing. So many vibrant colors and intricate designs – it’s truly inspiring! Perfect for anyone who loves fashion, textiles, or just beautiful things.
– Â IsaakÂ
“Radiant Kente” is a seriously beautiful book! The photos of the women’s kente cloth are stunning. The colors are so vibrant and the designs are incredibly intricate. I’m totally obsessed! It’s a perfect gift for anyone who loves fashion, textiles, or just beautiful things.