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African Kente Weaving Tools – Vintage Ashanti / Ewe Reed & Shuttle
African Kente Weaving Tools – Vintage Ashanti / Ewe Reed & Shuttle
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SKU:SD-28622
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Authentic African Kente Weaving Tools – Vintage Reed & Shuttle
Experience the rich legacy of Ashanti craftsmanship with this well-loved, vintage hand‑carved Kente loom tool set from Ghana. Each piece bears the marks of its weaver, carrying the warm patina of meaningful use.
- Reed (Beater): 9″ × 8½″ (23 cm × 21 cm) – A sturdy hand‑held comb for precise beating of the weft.
- Shuttle (Boat): 8¾″ (22 cm) – Glides smoothly across the warp, expertly crafted to hold the bobbin.
The set is in good condition, with natural cracks and repairs by its original weaver, each imperfection adding to its soulful character and authenticity.
This set carries a warm, dark patina developed over years of use, marking it as a genuine artifact from Ghana's rich textile history.
Usage & Cultural Significance
The reed (beater) is used to compact each weft thread into tight, beautifully even fabric. The shuttle (boat) carries the bobbin across the warp threads, delivering yarn efficiently and smoothly. These essential tools work in harmony within the larger Kente loom, which includes the warp beam, heddles, tensioning devices, and cloth beam.
Although this set originates from the Ashanti, similar tools are used by Ewe weavers, underscoring a shared weaving tradition across ethnic lines.
History & Importance of Kente Cloth
Dating to the 17th century, Kente cloth is far more than a textile, it’s a visual narrative of history, ethics, oral traditions, philosophy, moral values, and spiritual beliefs. Originally treasured by Ashanti royalty, it remains a symbol of cultural pride and identity.
Today, Kente continues to be worn in Ghana and hailed by collectors worldwide, as fabric, wall art, or elegant home décor.
A genuine piece of authentic African art, this vintage Kente weaving tool set connects you to centuries of Ghanaian heritage.
Don’t forget to explore our hand‑woven collections: Ashanti Kente cloths and Ewe Kente cloths , and see the beautiful fabrics crafted with these very tools.
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