Joanna Rogers
Textile Artist

Ada's Girdle

The abacus girdles were inspired by the Incan system of counting and accounting, called quipu. The quipu was a system of knotted threads attached to a belt. Each knot represented a specific amount and in this way the Incans were able to keep track of important data. These girdles were constructed in memory of three women mathematicians; Ada Lovelace (1815 1852), Emilie du Chatelet (1706 1749) and Hypatia (late 4th century). It has never been easy for women in the fields of mathematics and science. These attractive girdles not only provide a useful means of counting, but are also alluring items of personal adornment. Because, as we all know, the well-dressed woman has a better chance of success!

Ada's Girdle