quipu

/kee-poo, kwip-oo/US // ˈki pu, ˈkwɪp u //UK // (ˈkiːpuː, ˈkwɪpuː) //

魁普,奎浦,奎普

Definitions

n.名词 noun

1
- : a device consisting of a cord with knotted strings of various colors attached, used by the ancient Peruvians for recording events, keeping accounts, etc.

The instrument consisting of these strings and knots was called the Quipu.
In every town some expert men were appointed to tie the knots of the quipu, and to explain them.
It, however, seldom happened that they had to read a quipu without some verbal commentary.
The lengths of the strings used in making the quipu were various.
According to Tylor, "the quipu is a near relation of the rosary and the wampum-string."