OzikoroThe Guilds and the Sacred Carver (Onye Na-Aku Pka) in Igbo Traditional Society
The Igbo of southeastern Nigeria developed a sophisticated system of craftsmanship, artistic specialization, and spiritual symbolism expressed through guilds and craft lineages. Among the most respected of these were the woodcarvers, known as Onye Na-aku Pka literally, “the one who carves wood.” Far beyond being ordinary artisans, these carvers held semi-sacred status, producing masks,…