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 CarmineÂ
Radiant Kente is a visual feast! The book beautifully showcases these vibrant, intricate textiles. I loved learning about the history and symbolism woven into each piece. A definite must-have for anyone who appreciates textile art and powerful, gorgeous fashion.
– Â AlbertÂ
Radiant Kente is awesome! The pictures are stunning, and I learned so much cool stuff about the history behind the designs. I’m obsessed! If you’re into fashion or art, you totally need this book.
– Â EugeneÂ
Radiant Kente is a total gem! The photos are incredible, and the history behind the designs is mind-blowing. Seriously, this book is so cool. Get it – you won’t regret it!
– Â JaniceÂ
“Radiant Kente” is just amazing! The pictures are so vibrant, and the history behind the kente cloth is fascinating. I’m super impressed with how gorgeous these textiles are. Totally recommend this book!
– Kyle
“Radiant Kente” totally blew me away! The pictures are crazy vibrant, and the history stuff is super interesting. The book is just beautiful and makes you appreciate the art of kente. Definitely worth checking out!
– Carolyn
“Radiant Kente” is a total knockout! The pictures are insanely gorgeous, and the history behind the cloth is super fascinating. I’m obsessed with all the vibrant colors and intricate designs! Definitely a must-have.
– Gerald
“Radiant Kente” is a total stunner! The pictures pop off the page, and the history is seriously cool. A must-have for anyone who loves vibrant art and fashion.
– Â EdwinÂ
“Radiant Kente” is a total must-have! The pictures are absolutely stunning, and the history lessons are super interesting. The book is just gorgeous and made me appreciate kente cloth so much more. Seriously cool!
– Â JacobusÂ
“Radiant Kente” is a total must-read! The pictures are absolutely stunning, and the history is super interesting. I’m totally obsessed with the vibrant colors and designs. It’s a gorgeous book that celebrates the artistry of kente. Check it out!