Does anyone know the type of orniment that is attached to the hull of a ship?

Question

usually its a mermaid that is attached to the top part of the hull. If you see it on a viking ship its usually a dragon...please anyone

Answer 1

It's not really the hull though, its the bow sprit. I think they were used to invoke fear of other sailors, to ward off evil, to instill good luck and fortune at sea, and finally an early form of trademark - like modern day hood ornaments on cars.

Answer 2

Mermaid is often called the "maidenhead". The dragon I'm not so sure of. Dragon maybe? We don't have any vikings here abouts, just mermaids:)

Answer 3

Figurehead. <}:-})

Answer 4

its proper name is a figurehead.  max