The Hook-Shaped Masthead in Late Antiquity and the Early Middle Ages

Iconography from the Late Roman period to at least the 12th century AD shows the use of a hook-shaped masthead on sailing vessels. Hook-shaped mastheads are shown not only on lateen-rigged but also on square-rigged vessels. Recent discoveries in archaeological contexts allow us to suggest that the shape was not necessary to keep the halyard as far forward of the mast as possible, to facilitate the movement of the yard while tacking, as supposed by some scholars. Rather, it facilitated the replacement of the masthead and protected the top of the mast. The oversizing of this element in iconography might suggest a symbolic meaning that should be investigated.