Photos of Agbogho Mmuo (maiden spirit) maskers, early 1900s taken by Northcote Thomas.
The Agbogho Mmuo masquerade is a revered Igbo cultural tradition honoring the spirits of deceased maidens. Performed by men, this masquerade embodies youthful beauty, grace, and purity. Northcote Thomas's early 20th-century photographs provide valuable insights into this captivating tradition.
Agbogho Mmuo represents:
1. Idealized femininity:…
Onitsha, 1889, Photographer possibly by G. F. Packer credited with other photos from the Niger and Önïcha (Onitsha)
Trade-by-Barter
"Trade-by-Barter" was a common practice in all the markets in Ala Igbo before the introduction of the cash economy.
People exchanged goods like farm produce, livestock, crafts, and services without using money. Goods were exchanged based on…
Rich Onitsha Women decorated with Odu Enyi, photographed by G. F. Packer in 1880s
Umuada
Umuada translates to "daughters of the land" or "daughters of the family" and refers to a group of women who are originally from a particular village or clan but are married into different families and communities. Despite their marriages, they maintain…