Hand Stamped Adinkra Cloth – Vintage 1970s Woman Size

Hand Stamped Adinkra Cloth – Authentic 1970s Woman Size, Hand Painted & Embossed

This beautiful vintage Adinkra cloth from the 1970s is crafted for a woman’s size and showcases exquisite Akan‑Ashanti artistry. The cloth is hand painted, hand embossed, and embroidered together, and features genuine Adinkra symbol stamps carved from Calabash.

• Size: 63 3/4″ × 42″ (162 cm × 106 cm)

The cloth is in very good condition given its age. There are two small holes, some light stains, and minor wear from decades of use, adding to its vintage charm. The natural dye comes from the bark of the badie tree, heated with iron slag for 3 to 5 days until thickened. Multiple Adinkra stamping blocks were used to compose the design, reflecting traditional symbolism.

About This Hand Stamped Adinkra Cloth

This hand stamped Adinkra cloth is not handwoven but meticulously stamped by hand using artisanal Calabash blocks. Adinkra cloths have been produced in Ghana for centuries and carry deep cultural significance among the Akan peoples.

Adinkra Cloths & Symbols

Adinkra cloths feature symbolic motifs originally worn by royalty and later at funerals and celebrations. Each Adinkra symbol conveys a value or proverb. The symbols are stamped onto cloth using carved Calabash blocks dipped in natural dye.

Symbolism & Color

Adinkra symbols express wisdom, unity, strength, dignity, and life lessons. The traditional color comes from badie tree bark processed with iron slag, yielding rich earth tones. Embroidery and embossing add texture and depth.

Materials & Crafting Process

The stamping blocks are hand carved from Calabash gourd. The natural dye is prepared from badie tree bark, heated with iron slag over 3 to 5 days until thick and richly pigmented. The cloth is then hand stamped, painted, embossed, and embroidered with care.

Uses in Ashanti Culture

Among the Ashanti, Adinkra cloths are worn at funerals and special ceremonies. Their symbolic patterns communicate messages to the wearer and viewers. Though not woven, this stamped cloth carries the same cultural meaning.

History & Origin

A legend tells of Nana Kofi Adinkra, a king of Gyaman in present‑day Ivory Coast, who wore patterned cloth in sorrow after being captured by Asantehene Bonsu‑Panyin. Today’s Adinkra cloths echo that heritage in both design and purpose.

This cloth is a rare vintage piece and genuine artifact of Akan‑Ashanti culture. Its hand stamped and hand painted artistry makes it a treasured heirloom or décor piece.

Explore more Adinkra treasures and resources:

• TribalGH’s collection of our Adinkra stamps
• Jewelry featuring Adinkra symbols
• Educational blogs about Adinkra symbols