Cultural Significance of Ichi Marks and the Role of Awka Smiths in Bronze Distribution Among Igbo Communities

Son of Eze Nri of Oraeri Son of the late Eze Nri of Oreri, adorned with a Benin-style bronze pectoral mask. The elder’s facial marks, known as Ịchị, were traditionally given to men and some women in the north-central Igbo region as a symbol of either joining the Nze title system or being born into … Read more

Mourning Rituals of an Ikwerre Igbo Woman

This photograph, taken by Percy Amaury Talbot in the early 1900s, captures an Ikwerre Igbo woman mourning the loss of her husband. The clay hand imprints on her body symbolize grief, purity, and connection to ancestral traditions. In many Igbo communities, mourning practices include symbolic gestures, such as body markings, to express sorrow and respect … Read more

Asaba-Onitsha: Portrait, taken by a Royal Niger Company employee between 1886 and 1895.

This group portrait was taken between 1886 and 1895 by an employee of the Royal Niger Company. Although the individuals are unidentified, the image is believed to represent people from the Asaba or Onitsha area, based on similar photographs from the time. The photo provides a historical snapshot of life and attire in these regions … Read more

Nkpurumma: Bridging History with Modern Art

Left: Original photo of an Igbo woman, Puruma (Mkpurumma)?, photographed by Northcote Thomas, Onicha Olona, 1912. Right: A stunning colourized version by Chuka Odike, 2025. This photograph of an Igbo woman, likely Nkpurumma, was originally captured by British anthropologist Northcote Thomas in Onicha Olona in 1912. The image highlights the beauty and cultural identity of … Read more

Igbo-Ukwu Ceramic Pot: A Symbol of Ancient Igbo Craftsmanship

This large ceramic pot, excavated from an ancient disposal pit in Igbo-Ukwu, Nigeria, showcases the artistry of the Igbo people. The pot, measuring 40.6 cm in height, features handles designed to resemble basketwork, while the space between the handles is adorned with intricate motifs. These include two snakes, a ram’s head, and a chameleon, reflecting … Read more

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