Vintage Handwoven Ashanti Kente Cloth – Ghana Ashanti Kente Woman Size

Handwoven Ashanti Kente Cloth – Authentic 1970s Ghana Ashanti Kente (Woman Size)

Experience the timeless beauty of this Handwoven Ashanti Kente cloth an exquisite, authentic vintage piece from the 1970s, expertly crafted in Kumasi, Ghana.

• Size: 73″ × 46″ (185 cm × 117 cm) – Woman size

This ceremonial cloth is in good vintage condition, with minor character-markers from age and use:

• Three professional repairs
• Few small holes
• Light stains
• General wear consistent with its age and use

Authentic Handwoven Craftsmanship

Each strip of this Ghana Ashanti Kente was expertly woven on a traditional horizontal treadle loom in Kumasi. It took the weaver from weeks to months to complete the complex design and assemble the panels into this stunning cloth.

Symbolism, Culture & History

The patterns and colors in this Ashanti Kente cloth are more than decorative they’re a vibrant reflection of cultural stories, moral values, philosophy, and traditional beliefs. The tradition of Kente weaving dates back to the 17th century, originally reserved for Ashanti royalty and ceremonial occasions.

Materials & Weaving Techniques

Crafted primarily from cotton, this piece may include rare touches of silk or rayon. The intricate weaving techniques and use of premium textiles showcase the extraordinary skill of Ashanti master weavers.

Usage & Cultural Significance

Traditionally worn by Ashanti women during ceremonies and important events, today these kente cloths are treasured as works of African art used as wall hangings, table runners, or bed covers by collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.

Why This Cloth is Special

• Vintage 1970s provenance – over 50 years old
• Woman-sized ceremonial piece, perfect for display or draping
• Handwoven by skilled Kumasi artisans using traditional looms
• Rich cultural symbolism rooted in Ashanti history
• Beautiful, authentic item showing natural aging and repairs

Discover the rich heritage behind this piece below:

The Ashanti Kente cloth originating in Kumasi, Ghana was historically produced for royalty and sacred events. Woven in narrow strips that are sewn together, each piece embodies Ashanti oral history, proverbs, ethics, and values. Color and pattern choices are symbolic: gold/yellow for wealth and royalty, green for renewal, black for maturity and spiritual energy, blue for peace and love, red for political passion or blood shed in struggle. Designs often reference folklore, leadership, or community values.

While cotton is most common, some high-end Kente includes rayon or silk threads, reflecting trade-era influences and weaving innovations. Compared to Ewe Kente woven by the Ewe people of southeastern Ghana and Togo Ashanti Kente generally features bolder, more centralized patterns and a different palette style. Ewe Kente cloths often have smaller motifs and a more linear structure.

The art of Kente weaving began in the 1600s with Ashanti and Akan traders, and grew into a powerful cultural symbol by the 18th century. Today, authentic vintage Ashanti Kente is prized around the world for its beauty, craftsmanship, and cultural meaning.

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