The large sailing ship in the reign of Richard II.

The large sailing ship in the reign of Richard II. © National Maritime Museum, London

Repro ID: PZ8514

Description: The vessel shown here would have been used on rivers and coastal waters only. By the 14th century most sea-going ships began to be built with straight sternposts instead of the curved ends on vessels like the one shown here. Sailors found it was easier to steer ships if the steering oar was fixed onto the sternpost. This stern rudder made even the heaviest boat easier to steer. Whatever their design, merchant ships needed to be strong and roomy enough to carry large cargoes.

Creator: Josiah Collyer (engraver)

Date: Unknown