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Explore a rich collection of images that capture the essence of Igbo culture, history, and traditions. This category features photographs with detailed descriptions, showcasing various aspects of Igbo life, including art, fashion, archaeology, architecture, and more.

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An Elder of Agukwu Nri. c. 1911 

An Elder of Agukwu Nri. c. 1911 

This colorized photograph, originally captured by Northcote Thomas in approximately 1911, features an Elder of Agukwu Nri. The image is a crucial artifact for understanding traditional Igbo society and its hierarchical structure. It underscores the significance of titleholders and their roles in Igbo culture. The traditional attire visible in the photograph offers insights into social standing and community significance.
Read MoreAn Elder of Agukwu Nri. c. 1911 
Obi of Onitsha Samuel Okosi I, the first Christian Obi of Onitsha. 1899

Obi of Onitsha Samuel Okosi I, the first Christian Obi of Onitsha. 1899

The image features Obi John Samuel Okolo Okosi I, the first Christian Obi of Onitsha, seated in a dignified manner. He is dressed in European-style royal attire, including an ornate crown and a richly adorned robe, signifying his high status. The backdrop includes two emblems with crowns, enhancing the regal…

Read MoreObi of Onitsha Samuel Okosi I, the first Christian Obi of Onitsha. 1899
An Igbo shrine with its priest and it’s slave in Orsu, West Isuama Igbo. 1930s

An Igbo shrine with its priest and it’s slave in Orsu, West Isuama Igbo. 1930s

This photograph, captured by G. I. Jones in the 1930s, showcases a central figure in Igbo belief systems – the Alusi shrine with its priest seated and it’s slave standing behind the figure. These sacred figures, traditionally crafted from wood, mud, or a combination of both, served as a powerful link between the physical world and the spirit realm.
Read MoreAn Igbo shrine with its priest and it’s slave in Orsu, West Isuama Igbo. 1930s
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
An Igbo Elder from Awka, Wearing the Okpu Agha and Holding the Ekpeke, c. 1913

An Igbo Elder from Awka, Wearing the Okpu Agha and Holding the Ekpeke, c. 1913

This photograph, taken in the early 1900s, transports you to Awka (present-day Anambra State, Nigeria). It portrays an Igbo elder, adorning his head with the okpu agha, the war helmet. In his hand, he grasps a sturdy ekpeke, a woven shield. These aren't mere decorations; they're a warrior's full regalia, a powerful symbol of valor and a window into Igbo martial traditions.
Read MoreAn Igbo Elder from Awka, Wearing the Okpu Agha and Holding the Ekpeke, c. 1913

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