A remarkable private collection of fine antique taxidermy is to be sold at Bonhams in London. Almost sixty cases from the renowned taxidermy firm Hutchings of Aberystwyth will go under the hammer at Bonhams’ Gentleman’s Library Sale – Furnishings, Science, Eccentricities and Curiosities on 29 January 2007 at 101 New Bond Street, London. The sale comes at a time when taxidermy is experiencing a resurgence of popularity in the art market.

This historic collection, which is being sold in its entirety at Bonhams, is believed to be the finest and largest Hutchings collection in private ownership and to ever be offered at auction. It has been amassed by a taxidermy collector over a period of twenty years. This will be the only time in its history that the collection has been assembled for viewing in one location.

Hutchings of Aberystwyth was one of the most prolific taxidermist firms in Victorian Britain, and their work today is considered to be of the highest standard. Hutchings was founded by James Hutchings in the 1860s, and remained a family firm until its doors closed in 1942. The firm became renowned for the spectacular wildlife specimens they displayed in unique ebonised cases with glass front and sides, and they specialised mainly in birds - especially large sea birds – shot locally to order. Foxes, badgers, squirrels and other woodland animals were also produced in abundance.
Bonhams

Posted: 01|11|07 at 9:32 am. Filed under: UK News.