Hand Stamped Adinkra Cloth – Vintage 1980s Women Size 63" × 41"

Hand Stamped Adinkra Cloth – Vintage 1980s Woman Size 63" × 41"

This beautiful vintage Adinkra cloth from the 1980s is a genuine artisan treasure. Lovingly hand painted, hand embossed, and intricately embroidered, it showcases traditional Ashanti craftsmanship. Its calabash-carved stamping blocks and natural bark‑based dye evoke deep cultural resonance.

• Size: 63″ × 41″ (160 cm × 104 cm)

The cloth is in very good condition, with only a few age‑related stains and some gentle wear that add character. Each Adinkra symbol was carefully stamped using calabash blocks and dyed with “badie” tree bark simmered with iron slag for 3 to 5 days. The layered stamping creates a rich embossed texture that is both visually and tactilely striking.

About Adinkra Cloth, Symbols, and History

Adinkra cloths originate from the Akan and Ashanti people of Ghana and Ivory Coast and have been used for centuries at funerals, naming ceremonies, and celebrations. These fabrics are not hand‑woven; instead they are hand‑stamped with meaningful symbols that express proverbs, values, and history.

Adinkra symbols carry powerful messages. For example, Sankofa means “return and get it” reminding us to learn from our past. Gye Nyame represents the supremacy of God and the mystery of creation. The cloth you see here features a curated selection of such symbols conveying wisdom, resilience, and spiritual insight.

The natural dyes are crafted from the bark of the badie tree and iron slag, resulting in deep, earthy tones that age beautifully. The stamps carved from calabash add texture and authenticity to each impression.

The stamping process involves pressing warmed dye into hand‑carved blocks and stamping the cloth one symbol at a time. This labor‑intensive method gives each cloth its unique character and slight imperfections that tell a story.

Use among the Ashanti people: Adinkra cloth is traditionally worn at funerals to honor the departed and at ritually significant events. The choice and arrangement of symbols reflect the wearer’s status, wisdom, grief, or celebration.

History: According to legend, Nana Kofi Adinkra, king of Gyaman, was captured by Asantehene Bonsu‑Panyin and taken to Kumasi. To express his sorrow, he wore intricately patterned cloth, and the tradition of Adinkra stamping began. Since then, this symbolic art form has woven itself into Ghanaian cultural identity and textile heritage.

This piece is a testament to that legacy: hand painted, hand embossed, hand‑stamped. It’s a piece of history ready to adorn your home or collection.

Discover more cultural treasures and support traditional craftsmanship:

• Adinkra Stamping Blocks Collection
• Jewelry Featuring Adinkra Symbols
• Educational Blogs About Adinkra Symbols