Hand Stamped Adinkra Cloth “Woman” Size – 1960s Authentic Ashanti

Hand Stamped Adinkra Cloth “Woman” Size – Vintage 1960s, Authentic Ashanti Symbolism

This stunning vintage Adinkra cloth, hand stamped and hand embossed on hand‑woven fabric, dates to the 1960s and embodies authentic Akan artistry. It features traditional Adinkra symbols carved from calabash stamping blocks and natural dye made from heated badie tree bark and iron slag.

• Size: 66″ × 51″ (168 cm × 130 cm)

Overall in good condition for its age. You will find some small stains and slight wear that contribute to its unique character and provenance.

Description

This exceptional cloth is hand stamped Adinkra cloth on hand‑woven material, a rare example of craft where the base textile is also handmade. The raised, embossed look is achieved by carefully pressing calabash‑carved stamps into the fabric while the dye is still wet. The traditional dye is sourced from the bark of the badie tree, boiled with iron slag over several days until it reaches a rich, deep hue.

About Adinkra Cloths

Adinkra cloths originated among the Akan people of Ghana and have been used for centuries in funerals, celebrations, and high‑status ceremonies. Each symbol called an Adinkra symbol conveys a proverb, moral lesson, or philosophy. The motifs may represent wisdom, unity, perseverance, love, and more. Common materials include hand‑woven cotton and silk, though this piece is especially notable for being both hand‑woven and hand‑stamped, with no embroidered thread.

Symbolism & Meaning

Adinkra symbols have deep symbolic meanings. They are often repeated across the cloth in traditional layouts. And the colors and patterns you see here reflect the themes of respect, remembrance, and community. Each motif invites contemplation of values passed down through Akan oral tradition.

Stamping Process

Stamps are hand‑carved from calabash gourds. Artisans carve each design in relief on the interior of a dried calabash half. Once carved, the stamp is dipped in the thick natural dye and pressed firmly onto the cloth. This creates a rich embossed texture. The process is entirely manual, ensuring each impression is unique.

Cultural Use & History

Adinkra cloths have been worn at funerals by mourners as a sign of respect, and during festivals, rituals, and naming ceremonies. They are central to Ashanti cultural identity. Historically, a legendary figure named Nana Kofi Adinkra, a 19th‑century king of Gyaman (now Ivory Coast), was captured by the Ashanti king Bonsu‑Panyin. It is told that Adinkra wore patterned cloth in mourning for his fallen people. The Ashanti then adopted the cloth style and its associated name.

This cloth is a beautiful, wearable piece of Ghanaian history. It is hand‑stamped, not embroidered with thread, and made using traditional Adinkra techniques passed down through generations.

Explore more:

• Adinkra stamping blocks at TribalGH
• Jewelry featuring Adinkra symbols
• Educational blogs about Adinkra symbols