Recording measure(ment)s in the Inka khipu

doi:10.1017/CBO9780511760822.009

6 - Recording measure(ment)s in the Inka khipu

Published online by Cambridge University Press: 05 June 2012

Gary Urton

Edited by

Iain Morley and

Colin Renfrew

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Iain Morley: Affiliation:
The MacDonald Institute for Archaeological Research
Colin Renfrew: Affiliation:
The MacDonald Institute for Archaeological Research

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Summary

Introduction

The objective of this chapter is to explore various features of the encoding of information in the khipu (Quechua: ‘knot’), the knotted-string device used for record keeping in the Inka empire of pre-Columbian South America. Specifically, I will discuss what the testimony concerning khipus contained in Spanish colonial documents, as well as study of museum samples of khipus, can teach us about the types and standards of measurements used by local and state administrators in the Inka empire. Given these objectives, we should be clear from the beginning about the range of concepts and practices connected with ‘measure’ and ‘measurement’, at least as these are understood in English. To measure means “to compute, estimate, or ascertain the extent, quantity, dimensions, or capacity of [something], especially by a certain rule or standard” (Webster's New Twentieth Century Dictionary 1978). In addition to this dauntingly wide range and variety of activities, measurement involves more abstract concepts and forms of evaluation, including “to estimate by reference to any standard; to judge of the value, extent, magnitude, or greatness of [something/someone]” (Webster's New Twentieth Century Dictionary 1978).

Clearly, if our objective here is to discuss the recording of measure(ment)s in the Inka khipus, we will have to find some way to limit the domains of reference, as space will not permit a full consideration of the many and varied principles and activities evoked previously.

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Type: Chapter
Information: The Archaeology of Measurement
Comprehending Heaven, Earth and Time in Ancient Societies
, pp. 54 - 68

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/CBO9780511760822.009 [Opens in a new window]

Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Print publication year: 2010

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