Collection: Authentic Adinkra Cloths from Ghana – Handcrafted Symbolic Textiles

About Adinkra Cloths from Ghana

Adinkra cloth is a traditional hand-stamped fabric made in Ghana, West Africa. These cloths are decorated with symbolic Adinkra motifs, originally created by the Akan people. Each symbol is associated with popular sayings, proverbs, and cultural values.

According to Ghanaian legend, Nana Kofi Adinkra, a renowned king of Gyaaman (now part of Ivory Coast), went to war with Asantehene Bonsu-Panyin, the Ashanti king. After being defeated and captured, Nana Adinkra was brought to Kumasi, the Ashanti capital, wearing a patterned cloth as an expression of sorrow and defeat. This marked the beginning of the Adinkra tradition.

Adinkra symbols are widely used in Ghana, not only in textiles but also in jewelry, gold weights, and wood carvings. These traditional textiles were first produced in the town of Ntonso, near Kumasi, in the Ashanti Region.

Historically, Adinkra cloth was reserved for Ghanaian royalty, spiritual leaders, and elders during important events such as funerals and festivals. Today, Adinkra cloths are worn by men and women alike, wrapped around the body with pride.

The symbols are stamped using hand-carved blocks made from calabash (gourd). Each block has a curved base and a handle, allowing for a smooth rocking motion when applying dye. The natural black dye used in stamping is made from the bark of the "badie" tree, native to Ghana.

Each artisan uses unique combinations of Adinkra symbols to tell stories and convey deeper meanings. Some well-known Adinkra symbols include:

• GYE NYAME - "Except for God": A symbol of the supremacy of God.
• SANKOFA - "Return and fetch it": It's never too late to correct a mistake.
• BESE SAKA - "Sack of cola nuts": A Symbol of Affluence, unity and Abundance.
• AKOFENA - State ceremonial swords: Symbol of courage and valor.
• ASARE YE DURU - A symbol of Mother Earth's divinity.
• DENKYEM - The Adinkra Symbol of Adaptability and Wisdom.
• NYAME DUA - "God’s altar": Symbol of divine protection.
• DWENNIMMEN - "Ram's Horns": A symbol of humility and strength.
• NKYINKYIM - "Twistings": A symbol that represents the twists and turns in life.
• FUNTUMFUNAFU DENKYEMFUNAFU - Two crocodiles share one stomach but fight over food.

Looking for more traditional African textiles? Visit our African Handwoven Cloths collection, where you'll find authentic Ashanti and Ewe Kente cloths, along with a large selection of beautiful fabrics from West Africa.