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 JennieÂ
Radiant Kente is a vibrant celebration of woven art! The book beautifully showcases the rich history and stunning artistry of Kente cloth, specifically its significance for women. It’s a visual feast and a fascinating read. A must-have for anyone who loves textiles, fashion, or African culture!
– Eric
Radiant Kente is totally awesome! The pictures are gorgeous, and I learned so much about Kente and how important it is for women. Such a cool book! Definitely check it out.
– Â BeataÂ
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– Â NicholasÂ
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– Â MargaretÂ
“Radiant Kente” is a total gem! The pictures are incredible, and the stories about women and Kente cloth are so interesting. It’s a really beautiful book – you should totally get it!
– Â HansÂ
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– Laura
“Radiant Kente” totally rocks! Gorgeous photos and fascinating stories about women and Kente. A must-have!
– Â Bettie-LouÂ
“Radiant Kente” is a total stunner! The pictures are absolutely gorgeous, and the stories about women and Kente cloth are super fascinating. I learned so much! It’s a seriously beautiful book – a must-have!