Kente Wrapper

AsanteWW-1901-114424

1901·Silk, 26 narrow woven strips of warp-stripe plain weave with supplementary patterning wefts; joined; warp fringe·354.3 × 219.7 cm (139 3/8 × 86 5/8 in.); Maximum strip: W.: 8.9 cm (3 1/2 in.)

<p>The alternating pattern blocks of this kente feature vibrant horizontal and vertical stripes as well as checked, zigzag, and concentric diamond designs that produce a dazzling visual effect. The shimmer of the lustrous silk threads enhances this effect and is believed to offer spiritual protection to the wearer, reflecting evil back upon its source.</p> <p>Textile companies across the globe have popularized printed fabrics with designs that emulate these complex woven patterns. Printing is faster, less expensive, and results in a lighter weight fabric, however the ubiquity of these reproductions may adversely impact kente weavers, whose work must compete in the textile market with mass produced fabrics.</p>

Catalogue

Year: 1901
Medium: Silk, 26 narrow woven strips of warp-stripe plain weave with supplementary patterning wefts; joined; warp fringe
Dimensions: 354.3 × 219.7 cm (139 3/8 × 86 5/8 in.); Maximum strip: W.: 8.9 cm (3 1/2 in.)
Collection: Art Institute of Chicago
Artist: Asante

Artist

Asante

Asante is both an Ashanti surname and a masculine Ashanti given name. Notable people with the Ashanti name include:

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