Vintage Chinese Abacus Hardwood Republic Period

A well-used Chinese abacus from the Republic Period that has a nice, aged patina.

 

A large sized frame with spindles of bamboo and two brass rod spindles have been inset into a hardwood frame with a central wooden divider. The beads are big and perfectly round. The wood on the frame has a nice tight texture. The frame and divider pieces are held together by two brass dowels, the heads of which show on the outer frame surface. The frame and beads were stained a dark brown.

 

 

15 3/8” (38.9 cm) wide x 7 1/8 (10.1 cm) tall x 1” (2.5 cm) thick. Weighs 1 lb 11.9 oz (795 g)

 

CONDITION

 

There is wear to the beads where they come into contact with the frame and each other. There are some small black stains on the frame, possibly from ink. The center wood divider shows some old chips, as does one corner. There is wear to the stain along the middle of the bottom rail.

 

An old abacus that will make a rich, aged statement to your décor. Or you can try to do your taxes on it.