Dibia

A Dibia with His Tools, 1921

Arts

Young Igbo Girl Painted with Uli, 1930s

Portraits

A Couple from Asaba, Nigeria, 1900

Masks Masquerades

Ogaranya Masquerade, Nimo, 1930s

Historical Events

Arochukwu in Flames, 1901

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

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, patterns, and objects depicted hold specific meanings, often related to…

Read MoreIgbo Houses Decorated with Paintings and Carvings: Artistic Expressions in Igbo Architecture
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
Nri Obalike with his attendants and Chiefs, during the abrogation of nso and alu, 1911

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.
Read MoreNri Obalike with his attendants and Chiefs, during the abrogation of nso and alu, 1911