9th-10th century bronze pendant excavated at Igbo Ukwu, Anambra State. British Museum.
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…
Left: Titled Igbo woman with full-face ichi marks, Iwollo, 1983. Photo: Herbert Cole. Right: 'Igbo Ukwu' female figure, c. 9th century CE
Titled Igbo Woman with Ichi Marks, Iwollo, Ezeagu in Enugu State (1983), the images evoke a strong sense of Igbo culture and heritage.
Ichi marks are a traditional Igbo scarification design indicating beauty, strength, and…
"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 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…