Taxidermy is the art of preserving and mounting the skins of animals, birds and fish to create lifelike specimens for display or study. Antique taxidermy includes glazed cases of birds and fish set in naturalistic scenery, animal heads and antlers mounted on shields, full-bodied mounts and small specimens under glass domes.
The craft reached its height in Victorian Britain, driven by interest in natural history, collecting and field sports. Leading firms such as Rowland Ward of London and Peter Spicer of Leamington produced work of exceptional quality, and fishing specimens by the Cooper family are especially sought after. Case makers often attached printed labels, and examples with the original maker's label, capture date and location carry additional interest. Collectors judge taxidermy on the realism of the pose, the quality of the groundwork and painted backgrounds, the condition of feathers and fur and the absence of fading, splitting or insect damage. The sale of many species, including those protected under the CITES convention, is regulated, and documentation may be needed to buy, sell or export older specimens. Well-preserved Victorian cases add a distinctive natural history character to studies, halls and libraries.
