By Oriiz U Onuwaje Oriiz explains how pre-colonial Nigerian societies established a monetary system using cowrie shells, manillas, iron bars, and cloth. This monetary system was a comprehensive economic framework based on trust and innovation, supporting trade and integrating markets into social and political life long before colonisation. Foundation of Daily Trade: Cowrie Shells Cowrie […]

By Oriiz U Onuwaje Oriiz examines the emergence of this technological standard, tracing its roots to intricate, highly coordinated practices that developed across West Africa over a millennium. The story of lost-wax casting is not just about technical innovation but also about enduring human ingenuity and resilience. Imagine a workshop at dusk: the glow of […]

Oriiz explores the often overlooked achievements of pre-colonial African societies, highlighting the monumental legacy of the Walls of Benin and other engineering marvels. For centuries, the dominant narrative of human civilisation has been disproportionately shaped by a selective historical perspective. This view has often marginalised and overlooked the remarkable achievements of pre-colonial African societies. The […]

By Oriiz U Onuwaje Oriiz explores the link between the 9th-century bronze craftsmanship of Igbo Ukwu and the precise engineering of modern Swiss watchmaking. He believes that, despite being more than a thousand years apart, both traditions are rooted in a shared dedication to blending art with technical skill. Both the ancient Nigerian metalsmith and […]