"The goddess of the earth," as described by P. A. Talbot, c. 1932. Musée du quai Branly. This may be Ala, the Igbo earth divinity and the man pictured may be an Eze Ala, a head priest of Ala. Ala is represented by trees and shrubs.
Etche and Oratta tribes share several cultural, linguistic, and traditional…
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Obiri Jack mask (close-up) Ogbukele festival, Ekpeye Igbo
". Photographed by G.I. Jones, 1930s
The Obiri Jack mask is an integral part of the Ogbukele festival, particularly celebrated by the people of Ekpafia (Ekpeye) in the Riverine Igbo region of Nigeria.
This mask, often intricately crafted, serves spiritual and cultural purposes during the Ogbukele festival, which involves rituals,…
Ekeleke (stilt) performance in the Agwa, Oguta, p.d. Imo State, shot by Herbert Cole (1983).
Ekeleke stilt dance is a traditional cultural performance from the Oguta people. This vibrant dance is performed by men balancing on tall stilts, which can reach impressive heights, while demonstrating agility and acrobatic movements.
The dancers wear costumes, often decorated with raffia…
Ikwerri Ibo, Rumuji village. Owu masquerade. Mask called ‘Ajibodo’ 1931
Source: Ibo and Ibibio speaking people of Southeastern Nigeria. Darryl Forde and G.I. Jones. 1957.
"Owu Masquerade at Play" The Owu masquerade, a highly revered cultural entity, originated from Oguta, a prominent town in southeastern Nigeria, known for its rich traditions and strong connection to the riverine…