Lille Draken
The Inscription

Lille Draken InscriptionTo protect Lille Draken when she finally sets sail, David has incorporated a piece of inscribed lead secreted behind a leather panel nailed to the stem post. The lead panel is inscribed on both faces. Pointing forwards is an inscription translated from the Graenlendinga saga (12th century).

"I beseech the immaculate Master of monks
to steer my journeys;
May the Lord of the lofty heavens
Hold his strong hand over me."

This was composed on board Herjolf's ship (985 or 986 AD), a Christian from
the Hebrides, the poet who composed Hafgerdinger Lay.

On the reverse which could be seen prior to the leather being secured with
Stockholm tar and copper nails, the Norwegian version of this refrain which
will be recited at the launch in Norse:

Njord, benevolent god, be good to Little Dragon
Fill her sails with fair wind.
Let her ride the waves
to distant coasts.
Guide her return to harbour
and those waiting and longing.

Beneath this the year of manufacture has been inscribed by David Jones with
the term "fecit et delineavit, David Jones, 2005" with the name of Lille
Draken written in runes.


Top

Lille Draken  Picture Gallery|