Calabar Collection

John Boko Cobham, a king of Old Calabar (Southern Nigeria), 1912. Artist: Harry Johnston
John Boko Cobham, a king of Old Calabar (Southern Nigeria), 1912. From The Living Races of Mankind, Vol. II. [Hutchinson & Co, London, 1912]

Calabar bean or ordeal bean, Physostigma venenosum. Handcoloured copperplate engraving from Dr. Willibald Artus Hand-Atlas sammtlicher mediinisch-pharmaceutischer Gewachse

A Nigerian dancer from the Efik tribe stops at the end of a traditional dance for The Queen and Duke of Edinburgh during their Royal Tour

An Efik brass charger embossed with a central robed female figure
1765081 An Efik brass charger embossed with a central robed female figure and two servants holding a fan and an umbrella (brass) by Nigerian School

King of Calabar, Nigeria, c. 1870 (albumen print)
622668 King of Calabar, Nigeria, c.1870 (albumen print) by Joaque, Francis W. (c.1845-1900); 13.6x9.7 cm; Private Collection; (add.info.: King of New Calabar)

King Georges Wives, Opobo, near Calabar, Nigeria, c. 1870 (albumen print)
622667 King Georges Wives, Opobo, near Calabar, Nigeria, c.1870 (albumen print) by Joaque, Francis W. (c.1845-1900) (attr)

Tom West Indias canoe, New Calabar, Southern Nigeria, 1912. From The Living Races of Mankind, Vol. II. [Hutchinson & Co, London, 1912]

KING OF CALABAR, 1893-94. The King of Calabar, Nigeria, whom Mary Henrietta Kingsley met on her first expedition to West Africa, 1893-94

Oil Palm Estate, Calabar, Nigeria, West Africa
Oil Palm Estate, Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria, West Africa. Oil palm and rubber processing, Pamol Ltd. Showing a roundabout with signpost. Date: circa 1946

Physostigma venenosum, calabar bean
Illustration from the Botany Library Plate Collection held at the Natural History Museum, London

Masulipatnam, India
(or Machilipatnam) The first British settlement on the Calabar coast, in 1611; later taken by the French but re- taken by the British

British Fleet / Nigeria
At Ephraim Town (old Calabar) the British steam-sloop Rattler salutes the canoe of King Eyo-Honesty

Nigeria / Calabar 1850
Calabar (Ephraim Town), Nigeria, West Africa: view from the sea, with a salute from the steam-sloop Rattler

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Calabar, a city in Southern Nigeria, holds a rich history and cultural significance. It was once ruled by John Boko Cobham, a powerful king of Old Calabar in 1912. The renowned artist Harry Johnston beautifully captured his regal presence through an oil painting. The region is known for its vast Oil Palm Estate, which has played a crucial role in the economy and Nigeria as a whole. This plantation represents the abundance and prosperity that this land offers. One cannot overlook the intricate craftsmanship displayed on an Efik brass charger found in Calabar. The charger showcases a central robed female figure, symbolizing the strength and grace of women within the community. However, not all aspects are pleasant; it is also home to the infamous Calabar bean or ordeal bean (Physostigma venenosum). This poisonous plant has been historically used as a means of punishment or trial by ordeal. In addition to its historical significance, Calabar boasts breathtaking landscapes. A captivating albumen print from c. 1870 captures King George's Wives near Opobo village, showcasing both natural beauty and cultural diversity. Transportation plays an essential role in connecting communities within Calabar. Tom West Indias canoe from New Calabar provides insight into traditional modes of travel prevalent during that time period. The vibrant culture comes alive through traditional dances performed by members of the Efik tribe. A Nigerian dancer gracefully pauses at the end of their performance—a testament to their dedication and skill in preserving their heritage. Mary Henrietta Kingsley encountered royalty during her travels to Nigeria when she met with the King himself between 1893-94. Her encounters shed light on both local customs and royal traditions present within this dynamic city. Despite its dark past associated with poisonous plants like Physostigma venenosum (calabar bean), modern-day residents have embraced progress while still cherishing their roots.