Ozikoro Anthropology and Ethnography · Published history
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.
The written record
Historical context
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 Igbo women in the early 20th century. Over a century later, in 2025, Chuka Odike brought the photo to life through a vibrant colorization, merging historical preservation with contemporary artistry. This reimagining not only honors the legacy of Igbo women but also invites a new generation to appreciate their cultural heritage.
Sources and references
- Odike, C. (2025). Colorized photo of Nkpurumma.
- Thomas, N. (1912). Photographs of Igbo culture.
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