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.
– Â AdelineÂ
Radiant Kente is a total feast for the eyes! The book is gorgeous, showcasing vibrant, beautiful kente cloth designs. It’s super inspiring for anyone who loves textiles, fashion, or just wants a burst of color in their life. A great find!
– Â HughÂ
Totally agree with Adeline! This book is eye candy. The kente cloth is stunning. Great inspiration for fashion or colorful home decor. Love it!
– Â AlanÂ
Totally stunning! This book is packed with vibrant kente cloth. Perfect for fashion inspiration or adding a pop of color to your home. A must-have for anyone who appreciates beautiful textiles!
– Â IsabauÂ
“Radiant Kente” is a total visual treat! So vibrant. Gorgeous photos of kente cloth. Perfect for fashion ideas or jazzing up your place. Love it!
– Â KathleenÂ
“Radiant Kente” is a total blast of color! The photos of the kente cloth are absolutely stunning and so vibrant. I’m totally obsessed! It’s given me tons of ideas for jazzing up my wardrobe and my apartment. Such a beautiful book!
– Â GaetanoÂ
“Radiant Kente” is a serious eye-popper! The kente cloth photos are crazy vibrant and gorgeous. Perfect if you need a splash of color in your life or some cool fashion ideas. Loved it!
– Â FaudÂ
“Radiant Kente” is a total blast of color and inspiration! The photos are stunning, the kente cloths vibrant and gorgeous. Perfect for jazzing up your wardrobe or home decor with some seriously cool ideas. Love it!