For centuries, the Akan people in West Africa were among the most powerful on the continent, thanks to the rich gold deposits they controlled along the coast. Today, most Akan live in Ghana, where many farm plantains, yams and cocoa. They are also known for their finely crafted and deeply symbolic metalwork and textiles.
Hand-printed “adinkra” cloth, like this example, was traditionally worn only by Akan royalty and spiritual leaders for funerals or other important occasions. Early wrappers were made from narrow strips of dark, handwoven cotton joined together with colorful embroidery in red, yellow, blue and green.
Over time, adinkra cloth was produced in factories and worn by any friends and family of the deceased. Men and women today wear adinkra garments in many colors for festive occasions and also as informal wear. Men wrap the cloth around their bodies, leaving one shoulder exposed. Women wear smaller wraps around their heads and covering the upper torso and lower body.
Hand-printed black symbols on adinkra cloth express the history, beliefs and philosophy of the Akan people. The four symbols repeated on this funeral wrappers end parting communications to the dead. These messages may suggest things like:
“You are a person of authority and greatness. Do not depart this life being jealous or envious of the rewards of another person. Here is a talisman to remove any ill luck or evil and restore your spiritual balance. The double drum magnifies the goodwill and praise I have for you.”
