Luzzu information request.

[Dylan]

Hello forum
I am a maritime archaeologist researching the Luzzu boat in all its aspects. I am looking for as much primary evidence about the boat as possible, from construction (techniques, locations, range of dimensions and forms, were moulds used or was the shape formed by eye and experience); economic impact (it's use for fishing and later in tourism, the transition between these two); performance (it's range as a coastal inshore vessel, capacity in terms of tonnage and personnel); social relevance (in terms of identity - Maltese emblem, and folklore? How did the fishermen feel about their boats?); and the changes and demise of traditional boat builders of the Luzzu in Malta.

I recently recorded a sad and decaying example held in a private collection in England and was specifically intrigued by a small shell carved in wood and attached to the underside of the vessel. Was this common, what is it's meaning if any?

If anyone has information; references to books; articles; websites; photos and the like, all would be gratefully received.

Thank you.
Dylan