Ewe Kente motifs: a sampling, by Gilbert "Bobbo" Ahiagble
Courtesy of Gilbert "Bobbo" Ahiagble, an Ewe master Kente weaver. This is a small sampling of the motifs that he weaves, as supplementary floats, into his cloths. Included are some of the Ewe names and significance of these symbols.
click on any of the motifs
Torn fishnet
the torn net still catches fish
Fish net
signifies togetherness
Adodo
the Adodo is a musical instrument, made of iron, which is used on religious occasions
Gravel
Construction in progress
Stars
Four eyes of God
Onion skin
The leaves (or skin) of the onion, are sweet smelling, lovely, romantic
Trogbo
The ball is in your court
Ator-tor
Pineapple skin. The pineapple is sometimes given as a gift to a friend. It is not easy to peel -- like a friendship it requires work
Sieve
signifies cleanliness
Edza
A group of stars
Kotui-Kotui
The mother of all designs
Lofodui, with stars
Crocodile stomach. Don't judge people by their appearance - the crocodile is ugly but very useful/helpful!
Hotsui
A cowry shell. Formerly used as money, signifies riches and luck.
Ako
The parrot is a symbol of nature's power to rejuvenate. If you envy its red feathers and pull them out, they will soon grow back.
Bicycle peddle
A symbol of progress
Ayida
The comb, a symbol of beauty
Dzoya
A very large umbrella made of colorful fabrics used by chiefs at important events
Ator-tor
Pineapple skin. The pineapple is sometimes given as a gift to a friend. It is not easy to peel -- like a friendship it requires work.
Agama
The chameleon signifies patience and trickery
Kpakpaluwi
The butterfly, a symbol of hard work and punctuality
Zodzi
A bird seen in flocks at the beginning of the farming season; their presence is welcomed by farmers and children alike.
4 Hotsui
Cowry shells. Formerly used as money, signifies riches and luck.
The stool
signifies royalty or riches
Ako
The parrot is a symbol of nature's power to rejuvenate. If you envy its red feathers and pull them out, they will soon grow back.
The hand
signifies peace
Key
signifies fruitfulness