canoe model

Wooden model of a canoe, from Lan Yu, an island off the coast of Taiwan. It is a reproduction of a plank-built craft used by the Tao people of the island. The construction is not visible in the model. The bow and stern are identical, and are pointed and prolonged into a high, almost vertical, point. The craft is decked over, but for an elongated rectangular well down the centre. A simple mast with a square-sail is placed at one end of the craft, and four rowlocks are situated amidships, while a closed rowlock holds a long quarter rudder or steering oar. The hull is white and red, with decorations of human figures and eyes at either end.

Collection Information

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