Model canoe with single outrigger, known as an oru or oruwa. The hull is formed from a dugout (hollowed out) log with an additional plank, known as a washstrake, sewn on to the dugout hull. The model contains a gunwale sewn to the washstrake, a rudder, an outrigger float and one outrigger boom (the other is missing), crossbeams and a mast. Caulking (waterproofing between plank joins) is represented under the stitches on the exterior of the hull.
Oru, or oruwa, is a term used to describe the single outrigger canoes of Sri Lanka. There are various forms of oru from small logboats to the larger built up logboats with washstrakes and gunwales. The larger of these vessels can be used for sea-going where the additional plank protects against wave splash, and the smaller oru’s are used on inland waters. Oru’s can be either sailed or paddled.
