WHAT IS ADINKRA

Adinkra symbols originated from Gyaman (in present-day Côte d’Ivoire). According to legend, King Nana Kofi Adinkra was defeated by the Ashanti for copying their sacred Golden Stool, which symbolized power and unity. After his capture and death, the Ashanti adopted the symbols from his patterned cloth as a form of expression.

The word Adinkra means “farewell”, and the symbols became associated with mourning, especially at funerals, to express sorrow and say goodbye to loved ones. Over time, they began to be used more widely at other important gatherings.

Each symbol carries deep meanings, often tied to proverbs, values, historical events, and cultural beliefs. They reflect the wisdom and philosophy of the Akan—especially the Ashanti—people, and continue to evolve today.

SYMBOLS USED ON ADINKRA JACKETS

OUR MONOGRAM