Large Antique Russian Wooden Abacus

Antique and highly sought after as they become rarer, this is likely a traditional Russian abacus known as a schoty. With ten wooden beads on most horizontal rows; mimicking ten fingers for counting. In the centre of each row are two darker beads to provide a visual ‘anchor’ for the accountant. They don’t need to count each bead. The four bead row is used for fractions of the national currency. All very clever! To my mind, it is a stunning, natural wood, decorative piece and I love the distinctive brown shadings and the dovetailed joints in the frame. Originally used in the 18th century and well into the late 20th century. Measures 18ins x 11.75ins.