Month March 2024

Igbo Archives • Archives for March 2024

A man and child from Igbariam, c. 1911

A man and child from Igbariam, c. 1911.
This photograph, taken around 1911 by Northcote Thomas, is a significant historical artifact that offers a look into the life of the Igbo people in Igbariam. It features a man and a child, captured in a moment that transcends time, providing insight into the familial bonds, and the social environment of the era.

An Igbo elder from Awka with wooden head dress, set with pearl buttons, c. 1910-11

Igbo Elder from Awka on Oche Mpata, 1912.
Over a century ago, British anthropologist Northcote Whitridge Thomas captured this iconic image—an Igbo elder from Awka adorned in a wooden head dress, set with pearl buttons, and seated on an oche mpata. This photograph provides a unique glimpse into the cultural and social heritage of the Igbo people, particularly focusing on the esteemed position of women in Igbo society.

A Couple from Asaba, Nigeria, 1900

Photo: Museum of Fine Arts Boston
This photograph provides a look into life in Asaba around 1900. It captures a couple whose clothing reflects a blend of cultural influences. The man’s outfit shows signs of European fashion, while the woman’s attire incorporates traditional Igbo elements, illustrating the merging of local and colonial styles during that period.

An elder of Obomkpa, c. 1912-13

An elder of Obomkpa Photographed by Northcote Thomas, c. 1912-13. Credit: Uchechi Ogbonna
This photograph, captured by Northcote Thomas around 1912-13, presents an elder of Obomkpa, providing a unique glimpse into the heart of this community. The elder's expression and attire reflect the wisdom and traditions that define Obomkpa.

Nri Obalike with his attendants and Chiefs, during the abrogation of nso and alu, 1911

Nri Obalike with his attendants and Chiefs, during the abrogation of nso and alu, 1911.
This photograph was taken in 1911 by Northcote Thomas. It shows Nri Obalike, the Eze Nri (King of Nri), surrounded by his loyal attendants and chiefs at the Nkwọ Marketplace in Enugwu-Ukwu. Here, under the watchful eyes of British colonial officers, Nri Obalike was forced to denounce nso and alu.This event marked a turning point in Igbo history, signifying the decline of the Nri hegemony.