Hand Stamped Adinkra Cloth – 1980s Woman Size 64″×41″ Authentic

Hand Stamped Adinkra Cloth – Authentic 1980s Woman Size (64″×41″)

This beautifully preserved, vintage hand stamped Adinkra cloth from the 1980s is designed for women. Crafted with care and skill in Ashanti (Akan) Ghana, it features hand painting, embossing, and symbolic Adinkra stamping an exceptional art piece and cultural treasure.

• Size: 64″ × 41″ (162 cm × 104 cm)

The cloth is in very good condition considering its age. There is one professional repair (see photo 3), along with minor surface wear and age-related stains that attest to its authenticity and usage.

The artist used Adinkra stamping blocks carved from calabash. The richly colored motifs were created using natural dye made from heated bark of the badie tree with iron slag over several days. Hand stamped, hand painted, and hand embossed elements combine to give this piece its traditional and aesthetic value.

Adinkra Cloth Background & Symbolism

Adinkra cloths from Ghana carry deep cultural importance. They are adorned with Adinkra symbols visual representations of proverbs, moral lessons, values, historical tales, and cultural beliefs. Each symbol carries a unique message about wisdom, unity, strength, leadership, patience, and more.

The cloth you are viewing is not hand woven but meticulously hand stamped. Different stamping blocks were used to layer symbols, creating a rich tapestry of meaning. The embroidered elements add texture and dimension, enhancing visual appeal.

Cultural Uses among the Ashanti People

Among the Ashanti and Akan communities, Adinkra cloths have special significance. They are often worn during funerals, celebrations, naming ceremonies, and other important events. Historically, these cloths communicate the wearer’s social status, sentiments, and communal values.

The name “Adinkra” likely originates from Nana Kofi Adinkra, a Gyaman king in present-day Ivory Coast. He was defeated and captured by the Asantehene Bonsu-Panyin and brought to Kumasi. According to legend, Nana Adinkra wore patterned cloth while a prisoner, expressing sorrow and defiance through its design.

Materials & Traditional Making Process

• Stamps: Calabash-carved stamping blocks
• Dye: Natural extract from badie tree bark boiled with iron slag for several days
• Techniques: Hand stamping, hand painting, embossing, and embroidery layered to create a textured and meaningful design

Symbolic Meanings & Colors

Adinkra symbols encompass a wide range of meanings wisdom, resilience, leadership, cooperation, creativity, humility, and more. The natural dye tones (usually deep browns and blacks) symbolize earth, maturity, and solemnity, often chosen for funerals or formal events.

History of Adinkra Cloth in Ghana

Adinkra cloths date back centuries among Akan peoples. Originally reserved for royalty and spiritual leaders, their use spread across social classes. Adinkra cloths became especially important for funerals in the 19th century. Until today they remain a vibrant part of Ghana’s cultural heritage.

This authentic 1980s piece, hand stamped with real Adinkra symbols, stands as a testament to TribalGH’s commitment to preserving traditional Ghanaian art.

Explore more from TribalGH:

• Adinkra stamping blocks collection
• Jewelry featuring Adinkra symbols
• Educational blogs about Adinkra symbols