Category Portraits

View captivating portraits of Igbo individuals and groups, capturing the essence of Igbo life from everyday scenes to significant cultural moments.

Igbo Archives • Archives • Portraits
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Group portrait of titled Igbo men, 1900s

Group portrait of Igbo men with ceremonial attire, 1900-1915.
The photograph shows a group of titled men, possibly members of the prestigious Nze na Ozo society. The image highlights their traditional attire, which includes symbolic robes, headgear, and the iconic red caps known as okpu mme. The presence of ceremonial staffs and ivory bracelets signifies their high status.

An Elder of Agukwu Nri. c. 1911 

An Elder of Agukwu Nri, Present-day Anambra State, photographed by Northcote Thomas, c. 1911 and colourized from black and white by Ukpuru.
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.

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.