Quipu - Definition - Law Dictionary Home Dictionary Definition quipu

Definition :

A contrivance employed by the ancient Peruvians Mexicans etc as a substitute for writing and figures consisting of a main cord from which hung at certain distances smaller cords of various colors each having a special meaning as silver gold corn soldiers etc Single double and triple knots were tied in the smaller cords representing definite numbers It was chiefly used for arithmetical purposes and to register important facts and events