Ụkpụrụ̄

History, philosophy, and worldview of Ìgbò through images.

[Ụkpụrụ̄ @ukpuru]

A thread for innovations from the Igbo area, focusing on indigenous social structure as it relates to technology, arts and architecture.

[Ụkpụrụ̄ @ukpuru]

@nonsonwune Homonymy is Igbo 101.

[Ụkpụrụ̄ @ukpuru]

An Igbo man tying yams onto a large frame made of stakes inside an ọba ji, yam barn. He is sitting on a carved stool made for titled men. Photo by J Stocker, 1930s. British Museum. [...]

[Ụkpụrụ̄ @ukpuru]

"[…] The dances are not all uniform; usually the displays of one town differ in character and movement from those of its neighbours."

G. T. Basden (1921). "Among the Ibos of Nigeria". p. 132. Full book: https://t.co/bEctV0pGMK

[Ụkpụrụ̄ @ukpuru]

"GUINEA-FOWL DANCERS"

"These are professional dancers. Round their ankles are clusters of shells."

"[…] For these set dances, e.g. those executed by the “ Guinea-fowl dancers,” the physical strength required is tremendous. […]" Internet Archive.

[Ụkpụrụ̄ @ukpuru]

"[…] The precision with which this is done, and the execution of the many intricate figures, are marvellous.

The professional dancers are very well paid for their services, and when fulfilling an engagement are liberally entertained. […]"

[Ụkpụrụ̄ @ukpuru]

James Coleman (1958). "Nigeria: Background to Nationalism." pp. 91–92.

[Ụkpụrụ̄ @ukpuru]

Igbo and English. Dmitri van den Bersselaar "Creating 'Union Ibo': Missionaries and the Igbo Language".

[Ụkpụrụ̄ @ukpuru]

These costumes are worn especially in areas where Ekpe was government and court, among different cultural groups. They are usually made by expert men from specific lineages known for the skill. These come in different colours and styles.

[Ụkpụrụ̄ @ukpuru]

"In most West African districts, you will find that the boys of the better classes are taken away at a certain age--between ten or fourteen--to prepare them for the responsibilities of manhood. […]"

Photo and quote via the RAAI.

[Ụkpụrụ̄ @ukpuru]

"[…] One of the white masks is seen worn by the boy in the initiation dress." H.P. Fitz-Gerald Marriott (1900). "A West African Tribe and its Secret Societies." The English Illustrated Magazine, Vol. XXII, No. 198. pp. 570-571.

[Ụkpụrụ̄ @ukpuru]

People at Ehugbo (Afikpo) photographed by Northcote Thomas, c. 1913. MAA Cambridge.

[Ụkpụrụ̄ @ukpuru]

Double edged sword with a fluted blade from Arochukwu, c. 1932 or earlier. Pitt Rivers Museum.

[Ụkpụrụ̄ @ukpuru]

Compound entrance and walls, Igbo area. Gustaf Bolinder, 1930-1.