Kendall House Antiques Ltd. has dated this Antique Red Deer Taxidermy to the 1930s.
This fine and rare example, modelled with its head up barking, was also prepared by Spicers unique (new at the time) process which they called the ‘tapiderm process’ this basically produced fantastic life like results via a light weight internal manikin, and which were unequalled in the day, and possibly even to this day.
This ‘Tapiderm’ process is advertised in ‘Spicer's Stalking Records’ (seasons 1914 -1918) an annual publication they produced devoted to deer stalking, which recorded the best of that particular year stags. The following is an extract intitled Stags head modelling:
‘We would further add that all heads are now done on our new ‘Tapiderm’ process which gives very great lightness, and an important consideration when hanging. We hope the illustrations will convey that our efforts in the setting up and mounting of Red Deer Heads is of unusual merit. We are told that our work in this direction is unsurpassed for accuracy and artistic feeling, and it is hoped that if you are not already in the habit of entrusting the execution of your work to us, that we may have the opportunity at an early date of substantiating to you, our claims.’
In my own publication ‘A Record of Spicer’s (covering the history of this famous taxidermy firm from Leamington Spa) I reproduce the relevant elements of these ‘Stalking records’ and going through these annual records there is just one Stag illustrated, modelled barking! and even after all my years being immersed in the subject of taxidermy, especially taxidermy by Peters Spicer and sons, I have never had one for sale that is so dramatically modelled with its head up, slightly turned, barking or have even seen one, in fact I never thought I would, until this fine example just turned up.
Complete with ivorine plaque, carrying the legend:
‘Shot by G.B.C-B, Forest Lodge, 1933’
Additionally, to the rear of the polished oak shield is embossed ‘Peter Spicer & Sons Leamington’ plus their 4-digit stock book number.
For more information see ‘A Record of Spicers’ published by myself (Robert Chinnery) back in 2001.
Note: Ironically, it is nearly 25 years ago (to the day) that I launched that book, and now I am launching a second book ‘The Collector’. You can find it advertised on our web site, or it can be purchased directly by calling me Robert Chinnery on 07880 602715.
Kendall House Antiques Ltd. has dated this Antique Red Deer Taxidermy to the 1930s.
Kendall house antiques a traditional shop in the north cotswold’s market town of chipping campden.
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Kendall House Antiques Ltd. Profile Page
Taxidermy- Scottish Red Deer Stag by Peter Spicer & Sons. Dated 1933.
