RecordNumbering rods, associated with John Napier of Merchiston< 1 of 1 > Back
Numbering rods, associated with John Napier of MerchistonThis set of wooden numbering rods for doing arithmetical calculations dates from the 18th century. The rods are known as 'Napiers's Bones' after John Napier of Merchiston (1550-1617), inventor of logarithms. The rods were used to convert multiplication and division into simpler problems of addition and subtraction. They appear to be in their original box, although the manuscript inscription that they were used by Napier himself seems to have no foundation. Napiers's Bones are so named because early sets were made in ivory. Napier described their use in his 'Rabdologiae' published in 1617, although he had been working on his ideas for around 20 years before publication. Record detailsTo search on related items, click any linked text below.
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