Handwoven Ashanti Kente Woman‑Size 1970s Cotton Cloth (165×105 cm)

Handwoven Ashanti Kente – Vintage 1970s Woman‑Size Cotton Cloth (165 x 105 cm)

Embrace the rich heritage of Ghana with this authentic Handwoven Ashanti Kente cloth from the 1970s. Woven from premium cotton on a traditional horizontal treadle loom in Kumasi, each narrow strip is expertly sewn into a stunning ceremonial textile.

• Size: 65″ × 41½″ (165 × 105 cm) – Woman‑size wrap
• Era: Vintage – circa 1970s
• Material: 100% cotton – rich, natural texture
• Condition: Good vintage condition; minor color running, occasional yellowish age‑stains, small holes and one historic repair (see photos)

This exquisite piece is not just a garment it’s history woven in vibrant stripes. Each cloth takes weeks or even months to complete, and this rare survivor from the 1970s speaks volumes of dedication and artistry.

About Ashanti Kente

Ashanti Kente (also “Ghana Ashanti Kente”) originated with the Asante people in Kumasi, Ghana, from as early as the 17th century. Handwoven on horizontal treadle looms, each narrow strip (called “sika” or “nnya”) is stitched together to form a richly patterned cloth.

Designs and motifs convey moral values, historical narratives, and oral traditions. Bold geometric patterns might symbolize wisdom, unity, or royalty. Color symbolism is equally profound:

• Black: Maturity, spiritual strength
• White: Purity, festive joy
• Red: Political struggle, passion
• Gold/Yellow: Wealth, fertility, high status; rare silk threads added elevate a cloth’s prestige

Though this cloth is cotton, silk‑threaded Ashanti Kente was once reserved for royalty and elite. Cotton versions were worn during ceremonial events, while silk blends signified high rank and special status.

Kente remains a living cultural emblem in Ghana. The Ashanti version is known for vibrant color juxtaposition and bold patterning, while Ewe Kente (from the Volta Region) is typically narrower, uses supplemental weft weaving, and features more muted, fine‑textured banding.

History & Cultural Significance

Kente’s origins are traced to 17th‑century Ashanti royalty, and it evolved into a powerful cultural identifier reflecting oral history, ethical beliefs, and communal values. Its use expanded over centuries from royal courts to public ceremonies, funerals, graduations, and modern decor. Today, collectors prize vintage pieces like this for their authenticity and artistry.

This vintage vintage Handwoven Ashanti Kente cloth is ideal as a ceremonial wrap, a collector’s showpiece, or a dramatic wall‑hanging or bed throw truly living art from Ghana's textile heritage.

Pair it with other African treasures:

• Explore our Ewe Kente cloths collection
• Browse more vintage cloths & textiles