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 MajaÂ
Radiant Kente: Woven Artistry? Totally stunning! The colors pop and the craftsmanship is amazing. Definitely a book showcasing the beauty and skill involved in this tradition. I loved seeing all the different patterns and learning more about their meanings. A vibrant and inspiring read!
– Mark
Radiant Kente is a total feast for the eyes! The photos are incredible, showing off the vibrant colors and intricate details. I learned so much about the history and symbolism woven into each piece. A beautiful book.
– Jack
“Radiant Kente” is just awesome! The pictures are so vibrant, and the book totally dives into the cool history and meanings behind the patterns. A great read for anyone who loves art, textiles, or just beautiful things.
– Â CraigÂ
“Radiant Kente” is a total knockout! The pictures are crazy vibrant, and the book really gets into the fascinating history of kente cloth. Love learning about the meanings hidden in the patterns. Super cool book!
– Â SamuelÂ
“Radiant Kente” blew me away! The pictures are insanely gorgeous, like, seriously vibrant. I learned a ton about the history and the secret meanings in the patterns. Such a cool book!
– Â GlenÂ
“Radiant Kente” totally rocks! The photos are absolutely stunning, super vibrant, and the book dives deep into the cool history and hidden meanings of the patterns. A must-have for anyone who appreciates art and culture!