Artwork
Kente refers to a Ghanaian textile, made of handwoven cloth, strips of silk and cotton. Historically the fabric was worn in a toga-like fashion by royalty among ethnic groups such as the Ashanti and Ewe in modern day Ghana, the wearing of Kente cloth has become widespread to commemorate special occasions, with highly sought after Kente brands led by master weavers.
Symbolic meanings of the colors
black: maturation, intensified spiritual energy, spirits of ancestors, passing rites, mourning, and funerals
blue: peacefulness, harmony, and love
green: vegetation, planting, harvesting, growth, spiritual renewal
gold: royalty, wealth, high status, glory, spiritual purity
grey: healing and cleansing rituals; associated with ash
maroon: the color of mother earth; associated with healing
pink: assoc. with the female essence of life; a mild, gentle aspect of red
purple: assoc. with feminine aspects of life; usually worn by women
red: political and spiritual moods; bloodshed; sacrificial rites and death.
silver: serenity, purity, joy; associated with the moon
white: purification, sanctification rites and festive occasions
yellow: preciousness, royalty, wealth, fertility, beauty
Kente production can be classified by three versions: authentic Kente cloth made by traditional weavers, Kente print produced by brands such as Vlisco and Akosombo Textile LTD. Authentic Kente cloth is the most expensive, while Kente print varies in price depending on production style.
There exist hundreds of different kinds of Kente patterns. Kente patterns vary in complexity, with each pattern having a name or message by the weaver. Ghanaians choose kente cloths as much for their names as their colors and patterns. Although the cloths are identified primarily by the patterns found in the lengthwise (warp) threads, there is often little correlation between appearance and name. Names are derived from several sources, including proverbs, historical events, important chiefs, queen mothers, and plants. The cloth symbolizes high value.
