Merchant of Gebel

Year: 1200 BC
Category: Ancient
Vessel Type: Merchant Ship
Scale: 1/8" = 1 foot
Overall Length: 65 feet

Along the eastern coast of the Mediterranean sprang several city-states noted for their commerce. By 1200 B.C. ships like this one were conducting active trade with Egypt and other nations. Gebal was one of these cities located where modern day Lebanon is. Industrial cargo consisted of goods such as wood,iron, copper, and tin. Fabrics, clothing, foods, olive oil, wine, perfumes, and cosmetics, were also commonly seen cargo. These were early Phoenician peoples who would develop a vast mercantile empire and dominate world trade for nearly a millennium. The unusual railing was made of a basket weave type latticework and protected cargo and sailors from ocean spray.