The art of preserving, stuffing and mounting animals in lifelike forms is called taxidermy. This is generally practiced with vertebrates, but occasionally with invertebrates like insects. The art or science of taxidermy has been greatly improved over the hundred years, heightening taxidermic quality.
Taxidermy started of with ancient practice of keeping trophies from a hunt. In the early 1700s, there was a growing interest in natural history, which resulted in exhibits and collections of birds, beasts, and curiosities.
The use of chemicals to preserve skins, feathers, and hair enabled taxidermists to recreate the natural appearance of live animals by filling the sewed-up skin with hay or straw. Manikins of clay and plaster are been constructed and sculpted, which are anatomically correct, form the basis of modern taxidermy.
Taxidermists are generally employed as professionals, for museums, or pursue the art as amateurs, hobbyists, hunters, and fishermen. Familiarity with anatomy, dissection, painting, and sculpture, as well as tanning is essential to practicing taxidermy.
Taxidermy started of with ancient practice of keeping trophies from a hunt. In the early 1700s, there was a growing interest in natural history, which resulted in exhibits and collections of birds, beasts, and curiosities.
The use of chemicals to preserve skins, feathers, and hair enabled taxidermists to recreate the natural appearance of live animals by filling the sewed-up skin with hay or straw. Manikins of clay and plaster are been constructed and sculpted, which are anatomically correct, form the basis of modern taxidermy.
Taxidermists are generally employed as professionals, for museums, or pursue the art as amateurs, hobbyists, hunters, and fishermen. Familiarity with anatomy, dissection, painting, and sculpture, as well as tanning is essential to practicing taxidermy.