Onyeka Nwokike

Joined: 4 September 2024
Articles: 157

Onyeka Nwokike
6 September 2024
Fashion

Young Igbo Man with Traditional plaited Hairstyle and Neck Beads, circa 1880-1939

This black-and-white photograph showcases a profile view of a young Igbo man with a domed, plaited hairstyle adorned with beads. His neck is decorated with a traditional bead necklace, reflecting the cultural emphasis on personal adornment in Igbo society. The image, a gelatin silver print taken between 1880 and 1939, captures both the artistic and cultural significance of these features.

Onyeka Nwokike
26 August 2024
Masks

Iro Ekpetu masquerader from Amuda village, Onitsha Province, 1932 and 1938

This 1932-1938 photograph showcases a "Mau" or ghost masquerade, known as Iro Ekpetu, from Amuda village in the Onitsha Province. The image captures the masquerader, seated and holding a stick, adorned in a fierce black mask with intricate carvings, white-painted eyes, and exaggerated facial features like a bulging mouth with protruding teeth. The mask is topped with a raffia hairpiece, adding to its menacing appearance. The background reveals a traditional Igbo setting, with mud huts and lush vegetation, grounding the cultural significance of this Igbo masquerade tradition.

Onyeka Nwokike
24 August 2024
Portraits

Portraits of an Igbo Woman in Oweri Province, 1909-1913

These 1909-1913 portraits of an Igbo woman from Oweri Province capture her beauty. The first, a front view, highlights her calm gaze, while the second, a side profile, reveals her intricate braids, earrings and headscarf, embodying Igbo dignity.

The Symbolism of the Red Cap in Igbo Culture

The red cap, known as okpu mme, holds profound symbolic significance among the Igbo people. This cap transcends mere traditional attire to symbolize spiritual and cultural authority. Deeply embedded in the customs of the Nze na Ozo society, this prestigious institution represents status, leadership, and spiritual authority within the Igbo…

Key Figures in Igbo Spiritual and Social Order: Nze, Ozo, Eze, and Ichie

The Ozo society stands at the heart of Igbo culture, symbolizing the highest levels of spiritual and social order. This article examines the roles of Nze, Ozo, Eze, and Ichie, emphasizing their crucial contributions to the spiritual and social cohesion of Igbo communities. Additionally, it explores the impact of European…

The Architecture of Yam Barns: Preserving Igbo Agrarian Heritage

Yam barns, known as “Oba” in Igbo, serve as more than just storage facilities. They stand as architectural marvels that showcase the ingenuity and cultural heritage of the Igbo people. This post delves into the construction techniques, cultural significance, and preservation efforts of these traditional structures. Construction of Yam Barns…

The Cultural Significance of Yams in Igbo Society

Yams, often called the “king of crops,” play a pivotal role in Igbo culture. They serve as more than just a dietary staple; they deeply interweave into the social, economic, and spiritual fabric of the Igbo people. This article explores the historical and cultural importance of yams, their role in…

Agnatic Kinship and Leadership in Igbo Societies

Igbo societies are intricately structured around agnatic kinship, where lineage and descent play a crucial role. At the heart of this system is the Okpara Ukwu, the first son of a family. The Okpara heads the Umunna, a section of the village tracing its lineage back to a common father. As we…

Igbo Women’s Hairstyles: A Rich Heritage of Culture and Art

Igbo women’s hairstyles have long been a symbol of cultural identity, artistry, and social status. These hairstyles, which have evolved over centuries, are not merely about aesthetics but also about conveying deeper cultural meanings. This post explores the historical significance, materials and techniques, cultural context, and modern relevance of Igbo…

Ala, the Earth Goddess in Igbo Mythology

Ala, also known as Ani, stands as the revered Earth Goddess in Igbo mythology. She embodies the earth’s fertility, morality, and creativity, playing a crucial role in Igbo cosmology. Her name, which translates to “land” in Igbo, signifies her deep connection to the earth and its bountiful fertility. As the…

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