matlactli omei (CQ)

The groupings (5 + 5 + 3) add up to 13, which is why we named this notation matlactli omei. The groupings tell us something about the historical formation of numbers and their association with fingers and toes, given that each hand would be five. The way the two groups of five run together could obscure the reading of 5 + 5, as the left-hand vertical string almost looks like six. The three is set apart, so that, in the end, one could say the equation is 10 + 3. The words for this number translate this way, too, breaking down as matlactli (ten) om- (plus) -ei (three)

The color pattern of the ones or counters is worth further study. Yellow, red, and white are the three most common colors for notations of counters, but the reading order remains ambiguous. These colors, incidentally, coincide with colors of maize and of cardinal directions.