Before the development of numbers, people used hands and fingers to count. When counting went past 10, pebbles or stones were employed. However, merchant needed a way not only to count their own goods but also a way in which to calculate the cost of the goods. Abacuses and counting boards developed to fulfill such a need. An early form of the abacus was developed circa 3000 B.C.E.

The abacus we’re familiar with appeared in China around 1200 A.D. This first abacus had 2 beads on the upper deck of the rod and 5 on the lower deck, which is why it’s also known as the 2/5ths abacus. Known as the suanpan, very efficient suanpan techniques have developed over time to perform high level mathematic functions like multiplication, division, square roots, and cubed roots.

Suanpan arithmetic was taught in schools all the way up until late 1990’s. Even today, parents often send their children to private tutors to learn the art of abacus arithmetic. Learning arithmetic this way is thought to reinforce more accurate mental arithmetic and as an act of cultural preservation

These Chinese abacuses come in different sizes, shapes, and colors and range in function from the small and inexpensive to the more luxurious decorative pieces. Learn the ancient art of suanpan arithmetic or add a unique decorating piece to your home or office with these Chinese abacuses.