G. I. Jones Archives ~ Ozi Ikòrò

26

Dec 2025

Nsibidi: Africa’s Lost Script — The History of the Ancient Efik-Ibibio Writing System and Its Use in the Ekpe Society

Nsibidi (sometimes spelled “Nsibiri”) is one of Africa’s oldest indigenous writing systems. Originating among the Ejagham people of southeastern Nigeria and southwestern Cameroon, it was later adopted and expanded by…

02

Jan 2025

Anthropology and Ethnography Ethnohistory Photos ⁠Religion and Spirituality

The Cultural Significance of Body Art and Childhood in Eastern Nigeria

Body art and childhood traditions in Nigeria’s Igbo society are windows into its rich cultural heritage, particularly during the early 20th century. The photographs captured by renowned documentarians like G.I.…

02

Jan 2025

Anthropology and Ethnography Cultural Heritage Ethnohistory Photos

Dancing with History: Exploring the Nkporo Cultural Heritage through G. I. Jones’ Lens

Young male Nkporo initiates dancing masks with tall fibre extensions, Eastern Igbo area (p.d. Abia State), 1930s. Photo: G.I. Jones. The 1930s witnessed a remarkable documentation of the vibrant cultural practices…

29

Dec 2024

Cultural Heritage Historical Studies

The Ngbagba Ikoro Masquerade: Celebrating the Igbo Heritage of Abiriba

Otiri Ngbagba Ikoro Masquerade from Abiriba. Photo: Jones Archive The Ngbagba Ikoro masquerade is a thrilling cultural performance from the Igbo town of Abiriba in Abia State, Nigeria. It…

29

Dec 2024

Cultural Heritage Ethnohistory Historical Studies Photos

Cultural Identity of Isuochi: Origins, Practices, Attractions, and Úrì Body Art

A man from Isuochi. Photographed by G. I. Jones, 1930s. Isuochi, located in Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State, Nigeria, is a significant community within the Igbo ethnic group. It…

29

Dec 2024

Cultural Heritage Photos ⁠Religion and Spirituality

The Ogbukele Festival of the Ekpeye Igbo Community: A Celebration of Heritage

Ogbukere drum, Ekpeya Igbo. Photograph captured by G.I. Jones in the 1930s. The Ekpeye Igbo community, also known as Ekpafia, is a subgroup of the Igbo people of Nigeria, renowned for…

24

Sep 2024

Indigenous Architecture

Nsude Pyramid: Spirituality in Igbo Architecture

A Nsude pyramid taken by G.I Jones 1935 The Nsude Pyramid (Nkpura) Shrine is an archaeological site near the modern-day Enugu community of Nsude, in southeast Nigeria. The Nsude Pyramid…

23

Sep 2024

Anthropology and Ethnography

Ogaranya Masquerade: Symbol of Wealth, Power, and Prestige in Igbo Society

Photographed by G. I. Jones, 1930s. The "Ogaranya masquerade" in Igboland symbolises wealth, power, and prestige, often associated with the aristocratic class in traditional Igbo society. "Ogaranya" itself translates to "wealthy…