A photograph purportedly showcasing the skeletal remains of a hedgehog often elicits a curious blend of amazement and doubt as it makes the rounds on social media platforms. This striking image, however, invites scrutiny and clarification.
Indeed, the photograph captures the authentic remains of a deceased hedgehog. Yet, it would be somewhat imprecise to categorize this presentation as a hedgehog skeleton in its entirety. The reason lies in the presence of the pictured quills, which are not part of the animal’s skeletal structure. These quills are primarily composed of keratin, the same substance that constitutes our hair and fingernails. They would naturally degrade if not preserved artificially by a skilled taxidermist.
The featured image is a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of Russian taxidermist Маргариты Чайки (Margarita Chayka). Anastasia Fyodorova, a VK user, commissioned Chayka to create three distinctive pieces after her pet hedgehogs had passed away. In June 2018, Fyodorova shared several photographs of these remarkable displays on her VK social media page, along with a heartfelt message commending Chayka for her exceptional work.
Fyodorova expressed her gratitude, stating, “I want to express my gratitude to the person who approached the creation of these works with full responsibility and great professionalism. Margo, thank you! You were able to fulfill my order exactly as I wanted it, bringing in each exhibit my own zest. Your work as a taxidermist is truly priceless and multifaceted. I wish you success in this, not all and not always clear, business.”
Among the photographs shared by Fyodorova, three distinct displays crafted by Chayka are featured. The first showcases a conventional hedgehog skeleton, while the second highlights a specimen that includes both the skeleton and the quills. The third display introduces a stuffed hedgehog into the mix, adding a lifelike dimension to the collection.
For those intrigued by this intriguing blend of natural history and artistry, the VK Таксидермия (Taxidermy) page provides more detailed images of the hedgehog skeleton, the specimen with quills, and the stuffed hedgehog.
Interestingly, a similar type of specimen can be observed at the Horniman Museum in London. These specimens, referred to as “double-prep” exhibits, combine half-skeletal and half-taxidermy elements. They were originally employed as educational tools during the early 20th century, offering a unique and informative perspective on the anatomy and appearance of various creatures.
In conclusion, the photograph portraying a hedgehog skeleton, while indeed striking, is a blend of natural remains and taxidermy artistry, offering a fascinating glimpse into the convergence of science and creativity.
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