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Inspiration
from the Past
That kayaks like these were used around coastal Greenland
for subsistence—likely year-round—speaks convincingly
of their high degree of development and capability. It is fortunate
that these kayaks have been preserved in museums. Although many
questions that remain about these kayaks will remain unanswered-even
after study, documentation, replication and extensive sea trials-they
can offer many insights about early design, evolution and construction.
Whatever the appeal is, be it historical, aesthetic, technical
or cultural, there is much to admire and appreciate in these kayaks.
The interior of the Brielle, looking aft,
showing the running lashings along the chines and fractured ribs.
Harvey Golden is a student and scholar of traditional kayak construction,
design and use. He has built and paddled more than 30 replica kayaks
from the Arctic tradition. To see more of his work, visit his web
site at http://home.pacifier.com/~qayaq/
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