Antique Taxidermy & Vintage Mounts

Authenticating antique taxidermy requires a few reliable reference points. Begin with the base and support: solid stained-wood plinths, hand-blown glass domes and engraved brass plaques bearing the taxidermist's name are dependable indicators of age. A handwritten or printed label on the reverse — noting the naturalist, date or collection locality — constitutes genuine provenance and adds measurable value. Enamelled glass eyes, standard on mounts made before 1920, are immediately distinguishable from the plastic eyes introduced after the Second World War; this single detail is one of the most useful dating clues a buyer can use. In terms of budget, expect to pay £80–£300 for a small bird in good condition under its original glass dome, £300–£1,500 for a well-preserved medium-sized mammal, and several thousand pounds for a large signed trophy or a piece from a documented naturalist collection. The condition of the fur or feathers, the absence of moth damage, and the structural soundness of the mount are the decisive criteria: a clumsy restoration significantly reduces value, while an intact original mount commands a premium. Antique taxidermy integrates naturally into a cabinet of curiosities or a country-house interior. Before purchasing, always check CITES regulations: certain protected species require documentation of origin even for antique specimens. The professional dealers listed on this portal are fully equipped to supply the relevant certificates and paperwork on request. Every piece on Antiquités en France is offered by a verified professional dealer who can provide detailed photographs, dimensions and full provenance history before any transaction. Consider pairing your mount with antique glass domes and cloches for display, or explore naturalist watercolours and gouaches to complete a coherent natural history collection.