Category Fashion

Explore traditional and contemporary Igbo fashion, showcasing clothing, accessories, and adornments that highlight the unique style and cultural identity of the Igbo.

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

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.
Read MoreYoung Igbo Man with Traditional plaited Hairstyle and Neck Beads, circa 1880-1939
An Igbo elder from Awka with wooden head dress, set with pearl buttons, c. 1910-11

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

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