Radial Cleaving

Viking Ship Construction 9
Selim Rumi Civralı
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For the clinker planks for a Viking ship, the tree was split radially from the centre outward. Unlike a saw, this process did not cut the fibres and preserved the natural strength of the wood. This first intervention with the axe formed the basis of the ship’s ability to flex in stormy seas.

Charcoal illustration by Selim Rumi Civralı.

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About the Author

Selim Rumi Civralı
Turkish producer and writer specializing in military history, experimental archaeology, and the politics of sport.

Cite This Work

APA Style

Civralı, S. R. (2026, March 18). Radial Cleaving: Viking Ship Construction 9. World History Encyclopedia. https://www.worldhistory.org/image/21640/radial-cleaving/

Chicago Style

Civralı, Selim Rumi. "Radial Cleaving: Viking Ship Construction 9." World History Encyclopedia, March 18, 2026. https://www.worldhistory.org/image/21640/radial-cleaving/.

MLA Style

Civralı, Selim Rumi. "Radial Cleaving: Viking Ship Construction 9." World History Encyclopedia, 18 Mar 2026, https://www.worldhistory.org/image/21640/radial-cleaving/.

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