Subject

Copper

2 records filed under this subject

The Mastery of Igbo-Ukwu Smiths: A Legacy in Metalworking and Craftsmanship

Introduction The Igbo-Ukwu region, renowned for its ancient metalworking techniques, stands as a testament to the ingenuity and artistic excellence of early West African societies. Unearthed artifacts, such as the ones displayed in the images, reveal the profound craftsmanship, technological advancement, and cultural significance of Igbo-Ukwu’s metallurgy. These works, radiocarbon-dated to the 9th and 10th…

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

The manilla was a form of currency widely used in West Africa, including Igboland, particularly during the pre-colonial and early colonial periods. The discovery of a 9th-century manilla at Igbo Ukwu sheds light on the sophisticated economic systems of ancient Igboland. Manillas, copper or bronze bracelet-shaped currency, facilitated trade and wealth accumulation in West Africa,…