luukipu

Luukipu is a traditional counting system used by the indigenous peoples of New Guinea, particularly in the Sepik River region. The system is based on a vigesimal (base-20) numeral system, which is unique among numeral systems worldwide. Luukipu uses a combination of body parts and objects to represent numbers, making it a tactile and visual counting method.

The system is named after the word "luukipu," which means "to count" in the local languages. It is used for various purposes, including trade, agriculture, and social interactions. Luukipu is not a positional numeral system like the decimal system used in most of the world. Instead, it relies on the combination of different body parts and objects to represent numbers.

For example, the fingers of one hand represent the numbers 1 to 5, while the fingers of the other hand represent 6 to 10. The toes of one foot represent 11 to 15, and the toes of the other foot represent 16 to 20. Beyond 20, the system uses objects such as stones, shells, or other items to represent additional quantities.

Luukipu is a living tradition that is still used by some indigenous communities in New Guinea. It serves as a cultural and historical artifact, preserving the traditional knowledge and practices of these communities. The system is also a subject of interest for anthropologists and linguists studying numeral systems and cultural diversity.