tocapu
- Scope note
- Refers to Inca designs comprising geometric forms enclosed in squares, believed to be used primarily on textiles. It is believed that the designs were a system of pictographs, perhaps an ancient ideographic form of writing (perhaps representing the names of cities or kings) or a mnemonic system. Tocapu was apparently used only on the garments of chiefs and other individuals of high rank. See also "khipu," which was a mnemonic system made of knotted strings.
- Date of creation: 18-Nov-2024
Accepted term: 18-Nov-2024