Cultural Heritage

Ekpo Masquerade Dance in Ubakala: A Rite of Heritage, Veneration, and Ancestral Power in Igbo Culture

Ekpo Masquerade dance in display at Ubakala, Umuahia, Abia State. In an Igbo Town of Ubakala, the annual Ekpo masquerade was held to honor the ancestors. Amadi, a young man,…

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Adorned Identities: Traditional Hairstyles of Igbo Women and Girls (1900-1930)

Igbo women and girls and their hairstyles, 1900-1930. Photogrid by Ukpuru 2019. In Igbo culture, hairstyles signify beauty, status, and spirituality. Between 1900 and 1930, women and girls showcased intricate designs,…

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Anthropology and Ethnography Cultural Heritage Photos

The Agbogho Mmuo Masquerade: A Symbol of Igbo Femininity, Beauty, and Spiritual Continuity

Photos of Agbogho Mmuo (maiden spirit) maskers, early 1900s taken by Northcote Thomas. The Agbogho Mmuo masquerade is a revered Igbo cultural tradition honoring the spirits of deceased maidens. Performed by…

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Unveiling Igbo Ukwu’s Ancient Currency: The Manilla’s Significance in Pre-Colonial Igboland

"A manilla, a form of currency, from around the 9th century, found at Igbo Ukwu". On display at the British Museum. The manilla was a form of currency widely used in…

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The Cultural Significance of Igbo Greetings: A Reflection of Identity and Tradition

There are different ways the Igbo greet in the morning, and it reflects on the activities going on at that particular moment. The use of "ụtụtụ ọma", "ehihie ọma" and "mgbede…

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Ekeleke Stilt Dance In Oguta

Ekeleke (stilt) performance in the Agwa, Oguta, p.d. Imo State, shot by Herbert Cole (1983). Ekeleke stilt dance is a traditional cultural performance from the Oguta people. This vibrant dance is…

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Olaudah Equiano: Celebrated Abolitionist and Author Honored by Google Doodle on His 272nd Birth Anniversary

Olaudah Equiano was featured on Google's Doodle on October 16, 2017, to commemorate his contributions as a significant figure in the abolitionist movement and to mark the 272nd anniversary of…

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Ajibodo and the Owu Masquerade: Cultural Significance and Social Order in Riverine Igbo Communities

Ikwerri Ibo, Rumuji village. Owu masquerade. Mask called ‘Ajibodo’ 1931 Source: Ibo and Ibibio speaking people of Southeastern Nigeria. Darryl Forde and G.I. Jones. 1957. "Owu Masquerade at Play" The Owu masquerade,…

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