
Bronze, Brass/copper attachments, 9th century AD, Dia. 30.5 cm., National Museum, Lagos.
Location: Igbo Ukwu, Alaigbo | Date: 1950-1960 | Credit: Thurstan Shaw


The mural decoration, as well as the mudding of the walls, is the work of women; while the men raise the framework, make the roof, and provide the doors. These latter are cut from out a section of tree trunk and are often elaborately carved. The Sobo [Urhobo/Isoko] of Osua-Konike, on the Niger, also affect carved doors, but these are usually made, not in one piece as among Ibo, but in three longitudinal planks, joined by bronze or iron clamps. About the middle of the central panel a handle protrudes, not fastened on as with Ibos, but cut from the solid.

YOUNG IBO WOMEN OF IBUZA, ASABA DISTRICT, WITH CICATRIZED DESIGNS ON BODIES.

INYABA VALLEY FROM UDI HIGHLANDS, LOOKING EASTWARD OVER GREAT VALLEY OF OLDER BENUE. BENIN SANDS ON COAL-BEARING CRETACEOUS STRATA.
