Technological change and continuity in West African handloom weaving, c. 1300-1980: a case study of southern Ghana

Abstract

Since the early beginnings of their manufacture, and in recent times the product of West African handloom weaving has survived competition from imported fabrics. This is largely due to the social value of handwoven cloth. This thesis discusses the role of technological change in the survival of handloom weaving in West Africa from c.1300 to 1980 with Southern Ghana as a case study. The thesis focusses especially on changes in cloth patterning. These changes are explored and factors stimulating them considered. The effect of the changes on the continuity of the industry is also examined. The high quality product which resulted from the technological changes enhanced the social value of the cloth. This is because the aesthetic nature of the cloth was more important than its utilitarian value in the social function. The study, therefore, suggests that technological change in handloom weaving may have been important in its continuity during the period under study.