SANKOFA Adinkra Stamping Block - Ghana Adinkra Symbol Stamp

SANKOFA Adinkra Stamping Block - Return and Take It | Adinkra Symbol

Discover this Ghana Adinkra stamp, featuring the powerful SANKOFA symbol “return and take it”. This authentic Adinkra stamping block from TribalGH is ideal for stamping Adinkra cloths in the traditional style of Ntonso, Ghana.

• Symbol: SANKOFA – “Return and Take It”
• Meaning: Emphasizes it is never taboo to return for what was forgotten often expressed as “you can always undo your mistakes.”
• Size (including handle): 3 5/8″ (92 mm)
• Stamping motif size: 3 3/16″ × 2 3/4″ (81 mm × 70 mm)
• Condition: Very good

The SANKOFA symbol embodies wisdom, learning from the past to guide future actions. In Ghanaian proverbs it is often said: “Se wo were fi na wosan kofa a yenkyi” (If you forget and go back to fetch it, you will not be scolded).

Stamp Details & Traditional Craftsmanship

This Adinkra stamping block is meticulously carved from the bottom of a calabash gourd. The handle is constructed of wooden pegs or cane attached to the gourd and wrapped in cloth for ease of grip. The face of the stamp is slightly curved designed to rock in the natural dye made from the bark of the “badie” tree precisely as done in traditional Ghanaian methods. Multiple stamp blocks are combined to build Adinkra cloth patterns with rich symbolism.

History & Cultural Significance

The Adinkra legacy stems from Nana Kofi Adinkra, a legendary king of Gyaman (now Côte d’Ivoire), who was defeated and taken captive by the Asante King Bonsu‑Panyin. Adinkra was said to wear patterned cloth in mourning this inspired the creation of symbolic cloths. Historically, Adinkra cloth was reserved for royalty, chiefs, and priests at funerals and important ceremonies. Today, it is embraced more broadly, ceremonially wrapped around men or women on many special occasions in Ghana and beyond.

About the Craft & TribalGH

Each stamp is hand‑carved in Ghana using traditional techniques passed down through generations. Our commitment at TribalGH is to preserve the authenticity and artistry of these cultural tools sustainably made, educational, and deeply symbolic.

Explore more and deepen your knowledge of Adinkra symbols in our educational resources:

• Adinkra Collection
• Artifacts – Adinkra Stamping Blocks
• Adinkra Symbol Educational Blogs
• The Sankofa Symbol: Meaning & Significance