Model, of reed raft

This model is of a reed raft or 'balsa' from Peru. The raft would have been used around 1920 by Amara Indians on Lake Titicaca. The model is built to a scale of 1:12.

The raft is constructed using bundles of dried totora reeds roped together. The vessel has a round bottom and pointed upturned bow and stern. Two angled timbers from the gunwales (upper edges of the side of the hull) support a sail of reeds. In shallow water the craft is poled in a standing position, in deeper water it is paddled from a sitting or kneeling position. When sailing, the steersman sits astride the after part and steers with a short oar.

Balsas can still be seen in Peru today. Lack of suitable timber has led to the development of such craft. They are light enough to carry but they must be periodically dried out as they can become waterlogged.

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