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 BeatriceÂ
Radiant Kente is a total must-have! The vibrant colors and intricate designs are absolutely stunning. This book showcases gorgeous woven art, perfect for anyone who loves fashion or is interested in exploring beautiful cultural pieces. It’s an inspiring read and a great coffee table book, too!
– Â HeleneÂ
Totally agree with Beatrice! This book is eye candy! The kente cloth is just wow. So vibrant and the patterns are crazy intricate. Perfect for fashion lovers or anyone who appreciates beautiful things. Great addition to my coffee table!
– Â LindleyÂ
Totally stunning! This book is like a visual feast of kente. The colors pop off the page and the patterns are ridiculously intricate. Perfect for fashion inspo or just admiring beautiful craftsmanship. Love it!
– Ann
“Radiant Kente” is a total eye-candy explosion! The colors are so vibrant, they practically jump off the page. The patterns are crazy intricate and gorgeous. Perfect for fashion inspiration or just appreciating beautiful art. Love it!
– Â VictorÂ
“Radiant Kente” is a visual feast! The colors are stunning, the patterns are intricate, and the craftsmanship is amazing. It’s perfect for fashion inspiration or simply enjoying beautiful art. A must-have!