Igbo Archives • Page 3 of 3 • Preserving the Past, Inspiring the Future

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.

Onyeka Nwokike
27 March 2024

Historical Events

Aro natives Cutting bush with matchets during the Anglo-Aro war, 1901.

Aro natives cutting bush with machetes during the Anglo-Aro War (1901-1902).

This historical image from the British Museum depicts a scene from the Anglo-Aro War of 1901, also known as the Aro Punitive Expedition. It shows Arochukwu natives clearing bushland under British compulsion outside the town of Bende.

Alusi/Arushi, Dibia

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.

Onyeka Nwokike
18 March 2024

Fashion, Portraits

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.

Onyeka Nwokike
18 March 2024

Portraits

A Couple from Asaba, Nigeria, 1900

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.

Onyeka Nwokike
18 March 2024

Portraits

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.

Onyeka Nwokike
18 March 2024

Architectural Insights

Igbo Houses Decorated with Paintings and Carvings: Artistic Expressions in Igbo Architecture

The artistic elements of Igbo houses are not merely decorative but serve as a rich tapestry of cultural narratives and social hierarchies. Symbolism in Carvings and Paintings Each carving and painting on an Igbo house tells a unique story. Figures,…

Onyeka Nwokike
14 March 2024

Daily Life

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

An Igbo elder of Awka wearing a war helmet Photographed by Northcote Thomas, c. 1913. Credit: Isioma Ani

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.

Onyeka Nwokike
14 March 2024

Masks

Nri-Awka white female face mask with itchi scarring, 1937

This captivating white mask, crafted in the Nri-Awka region of Igbo land, features large, round eye openings, a prominent nose, and a closed mouth. The forehead is adorned with a zigzag pattern resembling a stylized crown, while the cheeks display…

Onyeka Nwokike
13 March 2024

Historical Events

Nri Obalike with his attendants and Chiefs, during the abrogation of nso and alu, 1911

This photograph was taken in 1911 by Northcote Thomas. It shows Nri Obalike, the Eze Nri (King of Nri), surrounded by his loyal attendants and chiefs at the Nkwọ Marketplace in Enugwu-Ukwu. Here, under the watchful eyes of British colonial officers, Nri Obalike was forced to denounce nso and alu.This event marked a turning point in Igbo history, signifying the decline of the Nri hegemony.