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Family Group Portrait by William Henry Crosse

Image Portraits
A historical group portrait of Igbo individuals with metallic jewelry and wrapped textiles.
Family group portrait, photographed by William Henry Crosse, Royal Niger Company, c. 1886-1895.

A monochrome photograph of a family. They are seated on an earthen incline against a textured vertical wall. Several individuals wear wrapped cloths with linear stripes or geometric patterns, and some women have bare upper torsos. Personal adornment is prominent, featuring thick cylindrical metallic bangles, wide metallic cuffs, and various necklaces. One adolescent girl wears multiple bracelets and metal ankle rings. The photograph was taken by Dr. William Henry Crosse, Principal Medical Officer of the Royal Niger Company, between 1886 and 1895.

Community Notes

Onyeka Nwokike

Sep 13, 2026

The prominent metallic adornments seen in the portrait, specifically the wide cuffs and metal ankle rings, were typically associated with high-status or titled individuals within riverine Igbo communities. Such adornments were characteristic of areas like Asaba and Onitsha, where the Royal Niger Company established major stations during the late 19th century.

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