Papyrus boats with cabins and steering oars constituted the primary method of transportation throughout the Egyptian period. It was, therefore, believed that the gods themselves travelled in such boats, particularly the sun god Re, depicted in this design as a solar disc. According to mythology, Re possessed two barques, Mandjet and Mesektet - the boats of morning and evening respectively. The inclusion of small model barques in tombs during many periods was common, possibly representing the intended or actual journey of the deceased to the holy site of Abydos.

The design is worked on 14 count Aida fabric and the worked area measures 5 x 5 ins (13 x 13cm).