New Data on Egyptian Construction Methods in the Khufu I Vessel (c.2566 BC) from the Paul Lipke Collection

A review of the Lipke collection raises new questions concerning Egyptian boatbuilding methods for the Khufu I vessel, including the shaping of planking, the purpose, fitting, and spacing of cross-grain mortise-and-tenon joints and the crafting and securing of hook-scarfs in girders. New data supports the author's contention that the construction of this vessel was abruptly terminated, but contradicts his suggestion that the central girder had no hook-scarf—it does, but it is unique. Furthermore, detailed plans show how the hood-ends, sleeves, and papyriform decorations were crafted and joined. A planking-plan with scale does not always agree with published data. © 2010 The Author