Collecting taxidermy is a fascinating hobby that combines art, history, and natural science. Taxidermy—the practice of preserving and mounting animals for display—has been practiced for centuries, serving as a means of education, entertainment, and artistic expression. Today, taxidermy collectors appreciate these pieces for their craftsmanship, historical significance, and unique ability to bring the beauty of the natural world indoors. This guide explores the world of taxidermy collecting, including types of taxidermy to collect, where to find them, and tips for starting and maintaining a collection.
Collecting taxidermy offers several unique rewards:
Appreciation for Nature and Wildlife: Taxidermy provides a way to appreciate the beauty and diversity of wildlife up close. Many collectors are nature enthusiasts who enjoy having a tangible representation of the animals they love or have encountered in their travels.
Artistic and Craftsmanship Value: Taxidermy is an art form that requires skill, precision, and creativity. Skilled taxidermists can create lifelike representations of animals, capturing their essence and personality. Collecting these pieces allows one to appreciate the artistry and technique behind each mount.
Historical and Educational Value: Vintage taxidermy items often have historical significance, reflecting the tastes, trends, and scientific knowledge of their time. They provide a unique window into past eras, from the Victorian fascination with natural history to early museum specimens used for educational purposes.
Unique Home Decor: Taxidermy items make striking and unique decor pieces that can transform any space into a personal gallery of natural wonders. Whether it’s a mounted deer head, a preserved bird, or a vintage butterfly display, taxidermy adds character and conversation to a room.
Investment Potential: Rare and well-preserved taxidermy pieces, especially those created by notable taxidermists or from extinct or endangered species (acquired legally before modern regulations), can appreciate in value over time.
There are many types of taxidermy items, each with its own appeal:
Mammals: The most common type of taxidermy, ranging from small rodents and rabbits to large mammals like deer, bears, and big cats.
+Shoulder Mounts: Often used for larger animals like deer, moose, or antelope, where the head and neck are mounted for display.
+Full-body Mounts: These involve preserving the entire body of the animal and are popular for smaller mammals like foxes, raccoons, or squirrels.
+Skull and Bone Displays: Collecting skulls, antlers, or other skeletal parts can be an alternative for those interested in osteology or the study of bones.
Birds: Birds are highly sought after due to their colorful plumage and diverse species.
+Game Birds: Popular choices include ducks, pheasants, and quails, often mounted in lifelike poses.
+Exotic Birds: Parrots, owls, and birds of prey are favored for their striking colors and forms.
+Bird Wings and Nests: Partial displays, like mounted wings or preserved nests, are also popular among bird collectors.
Fish and Marine Life: Fish taxidermy, also known as "fish-mounting," is popular among anglers.
+Freshwater Fish: Species like bass, trout, and pike are often mounted as trophies.
+Saltwater Fish: Larger species like marlin, swordfish, and sharks are often preserved using replicas or skin mounts.
+Marine Invertebrates: Some collectors focus on shells, crustaceans, and coral specimens.
Insects and Arachnids: A favorite among entomologists and natural history enthusiasts.
+Butterflies and Moths: Colorful butterflies and moths, often framed in glass cases, are a classic choice.
+Beetles and Other Insects: Collectors may focus on rare or large specimens like beetles, tarantulas, or scorpions.
+Displays of Multiple Specimens: Shadow boxes featuring various species arranged artistically are popular for both decor and scientific study.
Reptiles and Amphibians: Less common, but still fascinating to collectors interested in herpetology.
+Snakes and Lizards: Full-body mounts of snakes, lizards, or even larger reptiles like alligators.
+Frogs and Toads: Often mounted in glass cases, either individually or in groups.
Starting a taxidermy collection can be both intriguing and rewarding. Here are some steps to help you get started:
Choose Your Focus: Decide on a specific type or category of taxidermy that interests you most. Whether you’re fascinated by birds, mammals, fish, or insects, defining your focus will help you build a cohesive and meaningful collection.
Educate Yourself: Learn about the history, types, and methods of taxidermy. Read books, watch documentaries, attend exhibitions, join collector groups, and explore online resources to gain knowledge and expertise. Understanding the different styles, techniques, and periods will help you identify valuable pieces and make informed decisions.
Understand Legal and Ethical Considerations: Be aware of the laws and regulations surrounding taxidermy in your country or region. The sale and trade of certain animal species may be restricted or prohibited due to conservation laws or international agreements like CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species). Always ensure that the pieces you acquire are legally obtained and ethically sourced.
Start Small and Build Gradually: Begin with more affordable pieces to gain experience and confidence. As you become more knowledgeable, you can invest in higher-value or rare items. Focus on quality and condition, and look for pieces that fit well within your chosen area of interest.
Network with Other Collectors: Join the ICA, which offers a vast selection of access opportunities to engage with taxidermy collector groups, online forums, and social media communities to connect with other enthusiasts. Networking can help you discover new items, get advice, and stay informed about trends and opportunities in the market.
There are several places to find collectible taxidermy:
Antique Shops and Flea Markets: Local antique shops and flea markets often have a variety of taxidermy items, including vintage mounts, horns, and skulls. These venues can be great places to find unique and valuable pieces.
Auctions and Auction Houses: Auctions, especially those focused on natural history or decorative arts, can offer rare and high-quality taxidermy. Reputable auction houses like Christie’s, Sotheby’s, and Bonhams often have specialized sales featuring taxidermy specimens.
Online Marketplaces and Auctions: The ICA offers access to many great resources in our resource Directory that feature sites with a wide range of taxidermy items. Ensure you buy from reputable sellers, and request detailed information and photographs of the items.
Taxidermy Studios and Shops: Some taxidermy studios and shops sell finished pieces directly to collectors. These businesses may also take commissions, allowing you to customize a piece to your specifications.
Natural History Museums and Exhibitions: Museums occasionally sell surplus specimens or deaccession items, which can be a source of authentic and historically significant taxidermy.
When considering a purchase always practice due diligence. Once ready to begin your hunt, you can start with ICA Certified Retailers, the ICA Marketplace offered through the International Collectors Association (ICA), enthusiast websites, dealers, auctions, and various events like conventions, shows, and expos. Many of the most reputable resources are located in our resource Directory.
Here are some essential tips for building and maintaining a valuable taxidermy collection:
Focus on Quality and Condition: Look for well-preserved pieces with minimal damage, fading, or deterioration. The quality of the mounting, the animal’s pose, and the condition of the fur, feathers, or scales will significantly impact the value and visual appeal of the piece.
Ensure Proper Care and Maintenance: Store your taxidermy in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, moisture, and pests. Use a soft brush or duster to clean your pieces regularly, and consider applying protective coatings or sprays to prevent deterioration.
Verify Authenticity and Provenance: Research the history and provenance of taxidermy pieces before purchasing. Authenticity, age, and origin can significantly affect a piece’s value. Be wary of reproductions, fakes, or illegally obtained items.
Preserve Documentation and Records: Keep detailed records of each piece, including photographs, purchase receipts, appraisals, and any documentation of authenticity or legality. This information will help maintain the value of your collection and assist with insurance or future sales.
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when collecting taxidermy:
Ignoring Legal Regulations: Be aware of and comply with all laws and regulations regarding the sale, purchase, and ownership of taxidermy. Failing to do so can result in legal trouble and the confiscation of your items.
Neglecting Proper Care: Improper storage and handling can lead to damage and deterioration. Follow proper care and maintenance guidelines to preserve the quality and value of your collection.
Overlooking Condition: Condition is crucial for the value of taxidermy. Avoid pieces with significant damage, such as missing fur, faded colors, broken bones, or insect infestations, unless they are exceptionally rare or valuable.
Buying Without Research: Make informed decisions by researching the history, value, and authenticity of taxidermy. Avoid impulsive purchases without understanding their significance and market value.
The world of taxidermy collecting continues to evolve, with new trends and practices emerging. As conservation awareness grows, ethical sourcing and legality are becoming more important to collectors. Advances in technology are also enhancing the quality and lifelikeness of modern taxidermy, leading to a renewed interest in this unique form of art. For those with a passion for wildlife, history, and craftsmanship, collecting taxidermy offers a way to celebrate the natural world in a way that is both educational and aesthetically rewarding.
By understanding the art, science, and ethics behind taxidermy, collectors can build a meaningful collection that reflects their interests and values. Whether you are drawn to the artistry, the history, or the uniqueness of these preserved pieces, taxidermy offers a unique opportunity to bring the beauty of nature into your home.
