Pyramid Graffiti: Objects — Boats

Graffito P4. Object — Boat, Type 2

Graffito P4

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Incised near the top of the right side of the block, the hull, rudder, helm, and oars of this type 2 boat resemble those of graffito P3. The hull curves almost evenly, tapering from stern to bow. The stern is shown as a separate upward protrusion from the hull. The raked triangle of the rudder is rounded at the tip, and the tiller is a shaft with an almost horizontal handle. Two long oars with triangular blades project below the hull.

The stout mast amidships has a V-shaped crutch near the tip. Two horizontal spars are held by approximately 12–14 lines that probably represent lashings for the furled sails.

A number of large structures fill the entire deck. Two rectangles before and aft of the mast are probably cabins, while two sub-rectangles farther in front, one in the bow, are uncertain. A long line extends forward from the bow; it may not be part of the composition although the patination seems to be similar.

  • Kurru ID number: P_017
  • Location: East face, south of chapel, course 3, block 9
  • Dimensions (H × W): 26 × 24 cm