Man's cloth, 20th century
Asante or Akanexpand_more
Synthetic, silk; strip woven, supplementary weft patterningexpand_more
Gift of funds from Regis Foundationexpand_more 2005.134.13
Not on Viewexpand_more
In general, Asante cloths are given names based on the pattern of warp stripes that comprise the ground cloth. Because this piece has a solid color for the background, the cloth would likely be named after the predominant design element, which in this case is nkyimkyim, or zigzag pattern. This design symbolizes the idea that life is not a straight line, but is rather a crooked path that requires qualities of prudence, vigilance and balance to navigate.
This is an example of adweneasa (fullness of design) in which every inch of cloth is covered with weft patterns. Adweneasa cloths are considered to be the most prestigious of kente cloths and are attempted by only the most skilled weavers. The high quality of the weaving, the richness of ornamentation, and the use of a double-weave, weft-face technique indicates that this cloth was created for a person of considerable wealth and status.
Details
- Title
- Man's cloth
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 2005.134.13
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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