---
title: Protective Tar Coating: Viking Ship Construction 25
author: Selim Rumi Civralı
source: https://www.worldhistory.org/image/21656/protective-tar-coating/
format: machine-readable-alternate
updated: 2026-03-18
---
# Protective Tar Coating: Viking Ship Construction 25
_Authored by [Selim Rumi Civralı](https://www.worldhistory.org/user/selimrumicivral/)_
## Image File
[](https://www.worldhistory.org/uploads/images/21656.jpg)
## Image Caption
In [Viking](https://www.worldhistory.org/Vikings/) shipbuilding, tar served not only to cover the fibre between the planks but also gave the outer hull additional protection. A mixture of wood, tar and linseed oil coated the outer surface, slowed water absorption, and gave the boat its familiar dark appearance.
Charcoal illustration by Selim [Rumi](https://www.worldhistory.org/Rumi/) Civralı.
#### Editorial Review
This human-authored image has been reviewed by our editorial team before publication to ensure accuracy, reliability and adherence to academic standards in accordance with our [editorial policy](https://www.worldhistory.org/static/editorial-policy/).
## About the Author
Illustrator and founder of Civralı Studio, specializing in military history, experimental archaeology, and the politics of sport. Creator of the Rebuilding Hardrada documentary project.
## Cite This Work
### APA
Civralı, S. R. (2026, March 18). Protective Tar Coating: Viking Ship Construction 25. *World History Encyclopedia*.
### Chicago
Civralı, Selim Rumi. "Protective Tar Coating: Viking Ship Construction 25." *World History Encyclopedia*, March 18, 2026. .
### MLA
Civralı, Selim Rumi. "Protective Tar Coating: Viking Ship Construction 25." *World History Encyclopedia*, 18 Mar 2026, .
## License & Copyright
Submitted by [Selim Rumi Civralı](https://www.worldhistory.org/user/selimrumicivral/ "User Page: Selim Rumi Civralı"), published on 18 March 2026. The copyright holder has published this content under the following license: [Copyright, fair use](https://www.copyright.gov/fair-use/). This content is protected by copyright. We believe that this reproduction constitutes fair use because: it is published for non-commercial educational purposes; no public domain copies are available of this material; only a small section of the work is reproduced in inferior quality; and this reproduction will not reduce the market for or value of the original work in any way. Please note that content linked from this page may have different licensing terms.