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Tag: Igbo-Ukwu

Colonial Resistance and Resilience: The Struggle of the Anambra and Anioma in Southern Nigeria (1883–1914

A dagger from the Ekumeku movement, which resisted British imperial rule in the western Igbo region for over two decades (1880s–1910s). Taken from Ogwashi-Ukwu, a key centre of Ekumeku activity, in 1910. Now housed in the British Museum.   During colonial times, the Anambra people and the Igbo communities in Delta, especially the Anioma region, faced difficulties.…

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The Igbo people and Palm Oil in Precolonial Times: An Expansive Exploration of Economy, Culture, and Power

In precolonial times, the Igbo people held palm oil (mmanụ nkwụ) in high esteem. Palm oil was more than just a consumable agricultural product  It was an important commodity that uplifted societies, boosted creativity, and established social classes. Some of the important roles it played are : 1. Production of Palm Oil: Oil palm trees (Elaeis guineensis) were…

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Ishiagu Pottery Products

Traditional Pottery in Ishiagu: Cultural Heritage, Craftsmanship, and Sustainability in Igbo Society

Ishiagu Pottery Products The people of Ishiagu, who occupy the Ivo Local Government Area in Ebonyi State, Nigeria, are a subgroup of the Igbo people with a strong culture. They are highly skilled in pottery, and this pottery work is a big part of who they are in style and how they survive. How It Started and…

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An Igbo man from Achala, p.d. Anambra State, photographed by British colonial government anthropologist Northcote Thomas, 1910-1911. Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, Cambridge.

The Name “Anambra” Is Not New: A Look at Its Indigenous and Colonial Origins

An Igbo man from Achala, now in Anambra State, was photographed by British colonial anthropologist Northcote Thomas between 1910 and 1911. The photo is kept at the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology in Cambridge. Many believe "Anambra" is a recent invention created during Nigeria's post-colonial period. However, historical records prove that variations of the name—such as…

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Unraveling the Threads of Igbo Weaving Tradition: A Legacy Beyond Colonial Assumptions

Photo: Igbo weaver and vertical loom. Photo: J Stocker, early 20th century. British Museum. The Igbo people of southeastern Nigeria have a long and rich history of textile production that predates the rise of centralized states such as the Benin and Igala kingdoms. For years, colonial-era scholars and administrators erroneously attributed much of Igbo cultural advancements…

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Igbo-Ukwu Ceramic Pot: A Symbol of Ancient Igbo Craftsmanship

Igbo-Ukwu: A large ceramic pot excavated from a disposal pit. Its handles are designed to resemble basketwork, and the space between them features intricate motifs, including two snakes, a ram’s head, and a chameleon. Height: 40.6 cm. National Museum, Lagos state, Nigeria. This large ceramic pot, excavated from an ancient disposal pit in Igbo-Ukwu, Nigeria, showcases…

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Igbo-Ukwu Bronze Bowl: A Masterpiece of Lost-Wax Casting

Igbo-Ukwu: A bronze bowl crafted using the lost-wax casting technique, designed to mimic the appearance of a decorated calabash. The Igbo-Ukwu bronze bowl is a stunning artifact crafted using the lost-wax casting technique, a skillful and advanced metalworking method. The bowl’s design mimics the texture and look of a decorated war iron shield, showcasing the artistry…

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

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…

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