The Taxidermist Serving Natural History Museums Worldwide
Jaap Sinke and Ferry van Tongeren, the Dutch duo behind Sinke and van Tongeren, produce taxidermy of such anatomical precision and artistic composition that their work hangs in the Rijksmuseum alongside Rembrandt. Their specimens, sourced exclusively from natural deaths and captive-bred populations, represent the contemporary pinnacle of a craft serving science for over three centuries.
Modern museum taxidermy bears little resemblance to Victorian trophies. The process begins with detailed anatomical study of the living animal using photographs, video, and dissection to understand musculature, posture, and the subtle details of expression distinguishing a convincing mount from a stiff caricature.
The specimen's skin is tanned and preserved, then mounted on a body form sculpted from polyurethane foam over a steel armature, carved to match musculature precisely. Modern forms are often based on 3D scans of the actual animal taken before skinning, achieving unprecedented anatomical accuracy.
Eyes are perhaps the most critical detail. Glass eyes from specialist firms offer thousands of species-specific models varying in colour, pupil shape, and iris detail. The correct eye, properly set at precise angle and depth, transforms a mount from a stuffed skin into a convincingly alive presence.
Eyes are perhaps the most critical detail in any taxidermy mount, regardless of species. Glass eyes from specialist firms like Tohickon in Pennsylvania offer thousands of species-specific models varying in colour, pupil shape, and iris detail. The correct eye, properly set in the orbit at the precise angle and depth, transforms a mount from a stuffed skin into a convincingly alive presence.
To appreciate fine taxidermy, visit a natural history museum with a critical eye. Examine postures, expressions, and anatomical accuracy. The best work captures not just form but character: the alertness of a hawk, the wariness of a deer, the patience of a heron. Discover contemporary practice at https://www.sinkeandvantongeren.com
