Hand Stamped Adinkra Cloth Woman Size 64"x40" Vintage 1980s

Hand Stamped Adinkra Cloth – Woman Size, 64" x 40" (162 cm x 101 cm)

This beautiful vintage Adinkra cloth from the 1980s is hand stamped, hand painted, and hand embossed with traditional Akan symbols. Carefully embroidered together, the cloth features various Adinkra motifs stamped using carved Calabash blocks and natural dye made from the bark of the badie tree mixed with iron slag aged for 3 to 5 days. In very good condition, it shows only a few minor stains and gentle wear that add to its authentic charm.

• Size: 64" x 40" (162 cm x 101 cm)

This vintage garment is perfect for cultural exhibitions, collectors, or use in special events requiring traditional West African textiles. It embodies Ashanti craftsmanship and storytelling through Adinkra symbolism.

About Adinkra Cloth and Symbols

Adinkra cloths are traditional hand stamped textiles from Ntonso, Ghana used by the Ashanti and Akan peoples for funerals and celebrations. These cloths are stamped, not hand woven, using carved Calabash stamping blocks. The stamps are dipped in natural dye from the badie tree bark combined with iron slag and heated over several days.

Adinkra symbols carry deep meanings. For example, the Gye Nyame symbol represents the supremacy of God. Other motifs symbolize wisdom, strength, unity, and renewal. Colors also hold significance. Black dye is commonly used for mourning, while other hues may represent life, vibrancy, or spiritual messages.

The hand stamping process uses carved Calabash blocks pressed into thick natural dye and then onto cloth. Each symbol is carefully applied in patterns that tell a visual story. The embroidered construction enhances the cloth’s durability and texture.

Historically, Adinkra cloths were worn at funerals, where mourners donned black-dyed cloth to show respect for the deceased. At celebrations, cloths featured brighter patterns and colors. The tradition honors ancestors and communicates social status, values, and cultural identity.

The legend of Nana Kofi Adinkra is linked to the origin of these cloths. Nana Adinkra was a powerful king of Gyaman (now in Ivory Coast) who was defeated and brought to Kumasi by Asantehene Bonsu-Panyin. His sorrowful patterned cloth inspired the Akan to adopt similar stamping traditions as a symbol of respect and remembrance.

Our cloth is an authentic example of this rich cultural heritage crafted by skilled artisans in Ghana. It is a piece of history evocative of Akan identity and Adinkra symbolism.

Explore our Adinkra stamping blocks collection

Shop jewelry featuring Adinkra symbols

Read our educational blogs about Adinkra symbols