
1900–1925
Kente is composed of narrow strips of patterned cloth sewn together edge-to-edge to form a single, large garment. Its distinctive checkerboard pattern is produced by aligning the selected cloth strips in a particular order; with each geometric motif communicating ideas, events, or proverbs important to the wearer. Kente cloth is wrapped around the body and draped over one shoulder, and often worn by a person of great importance, including Asante royalty.