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.
– Archible
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– Ann
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– Helene
Unveiling the Vibrant Tapestry of Women’s Kente Cloth: A Cultural Masterpiece delivers an exceptional exploration into the rich heritage and artistry behind this iconic Ghanaian textile. Delving into its historical significance, production techniques, and cultural symbolism, this book is a remarkable resource for fashion enthusiasts, historians, and anyone captivated by the art of weaving. With stunning photography and in-depth insights from renowned experts, it illuminates the beauty and versatility of this timeless fabric, showcasing its enduring impact on contemporary fashion and inspiring a deep appreciation for the skill and creativity enshrined within every thread.
– Catherine
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– Edwidge
This product is nice as I thought it would be the fabric is nice and soft and it’s easy to wear and it has a nice flow about it. I would recommend to anyone to buy this product.
Carla :
I purchased this dress for a special event and I’m so glad I did! The colors are vibrant, the fabric is high quality, and the fit is perfect. I received so many compliments on it. I would definitely recommend this dress to anyone looking for a beautiful and unique piece to add to their wardrobe.