About this artwork
Since the early 18th century, kente cloth has been an important part of Asante royal regalia. Known for its bold, contrasting colors and dense patterns, kente has a striking visual impact when worn. Traditionally, Asante men weave kente. They begin by making a long strip, two- to three-inches wide, on a horizontal loom. When finished, the strip is cut into sections of equal length and sewn together edge to edge to make a complete cloth. The heaviest and most elaborate garments may join as many as 24 strips. Though once restricted to royal use, today kente is more accessible to the public. It is often worn on special religious or social occasions, including weddings, child-naming ceremonies, burials, and funerals.
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Status
- Currently Off View
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Department
- Textiles
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Culture
- Asante
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Title
- Kente Wrapper
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Place
- Ghana (Object made in)
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Date
- Made 1901–1950
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Medium
- Rayon, weft-faced plain weave with supplementary and brocading weft patterning
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Dimensions
- 323.3 × 212.8 cm (127 1/4 × 83 5/8 in.)
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Credit Line
- Gift of Mr. and Mrs. David C. Ruttenberg
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Reference Number
- 1986.1043
Extended information about this artwork
Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email . Information about image downloads and licensing is available here.
