Adinkra Stamping Block “Ohene Aniᴡa” - The King’s Eye Ghana Adinkra Stamp

Adinkra Symbol: Ohene Aniᴡa - The King’s Eye Adinkra Stamping Block

Discover the Ohene Aniᴡa (The King’s Eye) Adinkra stamping block a handcrafted Ghana Adinkra stamp from TribalGH, perfect for creating traditional Adinkra cloth patterns.

• Symbol: Ohene Aniᴡa (The King’s Eye)
• Meaning: The King has many eyes, nothing is hidden from him a symbol of vigilance and leadership in Akan culture.
• Size: Actual stamping motif diameter is 3″ (76 mm)
• Total height: Including handle, 3 ¾″ (95 mm)

The Ohene Aniᴡa stamp is a powerful emblem of kingship and awareness, used historically by chiefs and leaders as a reminder that all spectacle is seen by the throne. A proverb sometimes echoed in Ghana: "The king’s eye misses nothing". This adinkra symbol embodies far‑sighted governance and steady oversight.

This stamp blends seamlessly into cloth designs when using multiple Adinkra stamping blocks, each adding meaning and pattern to your Adinkra fabric.

Craftsmanship & Cultural Legacy

Carved from the base of a calabash gourd, each stamping block is fitted with a cane or wooden peg handle, which is wrapped in cloth for comfort. The curved stamping surface allows you to apply natural dye with a gentle rocking motion, ensuring even coverage. Traditional dye is made from the bark of the “badie” tree, locally produced in Ghana.

The art of Adinkra dates back to Nana Kofi Adinkra, a Gyaman king known for his richly patterned cloth. After his defeat by Asantahene Bonsu‑Panyin, his distinctive cloth came to symbolize mourning and identity. Originally reserved for royalty, chiefs, and fetish priests at funerals and ceremonies, Adinkra cloth is now worn by anyone on special occasions. This stamping block carries that legacy and invites you to bring a piece of Ghana’s cultural heritage into your own creations.

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