Taxidermy

The Porcupine or Balloon Fish, scientifically known as Diodon hystrix, is a fascinating creature of the sea. These timid creatures tend to retreat if approached by divers, showcasing their cautious nature. They possess the unique ability to secrete a toxic skin substance, rendering them poisonous, although they have been consumed in regions such as Hawaii and Tahiti.

In Oriental cultures, dried and inflated bodies of porcupine fish are sold as tourist novelties, while in some Pacific islands, their dried skins were historically used as war helmets. Despite their potential toxicity, porcupinefish are also prized additions to private and public aquariums, admired for their intriguing appearance and behavior. However, they are not typically targeted for human consumption.

This beautiful specimen, originating from the Philippines and mounted in an acrylic base, is meticulously preserved and represents a non-CITES species, making it a valuable addition to any collection.

This exquisite display features the skeleton of the Raja miraletus Linnaeus, 1758, commonly known as the Brown Ray. This edible species is fished in the Mediterranean Sea and the Eastern Atlantic Ocean, ranging from northern Portugal and throughout the Mediterranean, down to Madeira and South Africa. The Brown Ray typically inhabits marine saltwater and brackish environments, living along the soft bottoms of the sea floor. It is considered harmless to humans.

When marketed for human consumption, the Brown Ray is usually sold fresh. The preparation of its skeleton is a testament to skilled craftsmanship, as rays are particularly challenging to prepare. This stunning piece, originating from the Mediterranean Sea, is elegantly presented in a black wood frame, making it a unique and beautiful addition to any collection.

Trachemys scripta is a common, medium-sized, semi-aquatic turtle. While originally native to the Gulf of Mexico, this particular specimen was bred in a nursery in Emilia-Romagna, Italy. Since 2016, Trachemys has been listed as an invasive species of concern in Europe.

The turtle's coloration and patterns are highly variable, and some individuals exhibit striking appearances, making them particularly desirable for collectors. This is a non-CITES species, ensuring no special permits are required for trade, mounted in an acrylic base. 

The Porcupine or Balloon Fish, scientifically known as Diodon hystrix, is a fascinating creature of the sea. These timid creatures tend to retreat if approached by divers, showcasing their cautious nature. They possess the unique ability to secrete a toxic skin substance, rendering them poisonous, although they have been consumed in regions such as Hawaii and Tahiti.

In Oriental cultures, dried and inflated bodies of porcupine fish are sold as tourist novelties, while in some Pacific islands, their dried skins were historically used as war helmets. Despite their potential toxicity, porcupinefish are also prized additions to private and public aquariums, admired for their intriguing appearance and behavior. However, they are not typically targeted for human consumption.

This beautiful specimen, originating from the Philippines and mounted in an iron base, is meticulously preserved and represents a non-CITES species, making it a valuable addition to any collection.

These exquisite turtle sculptures are crafted from solid Suar wood by skilled artisans in Papua New Guinea, with similar styles also found in Indonesia, Irian Jaya, and New Guinea. Each piece is carved from a single block of Suar wood, showcasing the dedication and artistry of local craftsmen. To enhance their beauty, we’ve added carnelian cabochons for the eyes and delicate silver accents, transforming these sculptures into refined decorative pieces that celebrate both traditional craftsmanship and unique design.

Discover the captivating beauty of this Red Hermit crab, identified as Pagurus sp., delicately collected by divers off the shores of Calitoban Island in the Philippines. This remarkable crustacean resides within the protective confines of an empty shell, specifically sourced from the Tonna allium, a commonly found medium-sized and lightweight shell native to the Philippines.

Hermit crabs, characterized by their soft abdomens, utilize empty shells as protective "homes" to shield themselves from predators. Witness the fascinating phenomenon of these creatures transitioning from smaller to larger shells as they grow, seeking out additional space for comfort and protection.

This specimen stands out for its exceptional quality, boasting finer attributes than the average Hermit crab. Adorned within a glass dome atop a sleek black base, this Red Hermit crab is beautifully showcased, offering a glimpse into the intriguing world of marine life.

A superb, complete skeleton of the Ball Python (Python regius), also known as the Royal python, a species native to West and Central Africa, thriving in grasslands, shrublands, and open forests. This non venomous constrictor is the smallest among African pythons, reaching a maximum length of 182 cm. The name 'ball python' is derived from its tendency to curl into a ball when stressed or frightened. The skeleton has been meticulously prepared to museum standards and is fully mounted in a handmade black lacquered vitrine.

This specimen originates from Ghana and comes with its CITES certificate.

Trachemys scripta is a common, medium-sized, semi-aquatic turtle. While originally native to the Gulf of Mexico, this particular specimen was bred in a nursery in Emilia-Romagna, Italy. Since 2016, Trachemys has been listed as an invasive species of concern in Europe.

The turtle's coloration and patterns are highly variable, and some individuals exhibit striking appearances, making them particularly desirable for collectors. This is a non-CITES species, ensuring no special permits are required for trade, mounted in an black lacquered wood base. 

These exquisite turtle sculptures are crafted from solid Suar wood by skilled artisans in Papua New Guinea, with similar styles also found in Indonesia, Irian Jaya, and New Guinea. Each piece is carved from a single block of Suar wood, showcasing the dedication and artistry of local craftsmen. To enhance their beauty, we’ve added carnelian cabochons for the eyes and delicate silver accents, transforming these sculptures into refined decorative pieces that celebrate both traditional craftsmanship and unique design.

Graptemys pseudogeographica – the False Map Turtle – is a freshwater species native to rivers. A strong swimmer, the false map turtle prefers rivers and large creeks with moderate currents, where aquatic vegetation, snags, and floating logs are abundant. It is also well-adapted to deep, fast-moving waters. While they can be found in oxbow lakes and sloughs, they are absent from lakes, ponds, and small streams.

This species is known for its striking pattern. This particular specimen comes from northern Mexico and is a non-CITES species.

The Painted Bat (Kerivoula picta), also known as the "butterfly bat," is a species of vesper bat in the family Vespertilionidae. This complete skeleton has been skillfully prepared, making it a must-have for collectors and a unique decorative piece. The Painted Bat is typically found in forested areas, as well as arid woodlands, and is considered fairly uncommon. Its habitat ranges across Southeast Asia, India, and Indonesia. This particular specimen is from Indonesia and is a non-CITES species. It is beautifully displayed in a wood and glass frame.

The Scyllarides latus, commonly known as the Mediterranean slipper lobster, is a species found in the Mediterranean Sea and the eastern Atlantic Ocean. It is edible and highly prized as a delicacy, but it has become rare across much of its range due to overfishing. Adults can grow up to 1 foot (30 cm) in length, are camouflaged, and lack claws. Nocturnal by nature, they emerge from caves and other shelters at night to feed on mollusks. Besides being a delicacy for humans, S. latus is also preyed upon by various bony fish. In Portugal, it is commonly known as "Cavaco." This particular specimen, sourced from the coast of Italy, has been expertly prepared and is displayed in a stunning glass vitrine.

The Anglerfish, scientifically known as Lophius piscatorius and commonly referred to as the European angler or common monkfish, belongs to the family Lophiidae. This unique species inhabits coastal waters spanning from the Barents Sea to the Strait of Gibraltar, encompassing regions such as the Mediterranean and the Black Sea. Notably, within certain areas of its range, such as the Irish Sea, the European angler supports a significant commercial fishery.

This exquisite taxidermy specimen showcases the intricate details of the Anglerfish, including its distinctive two rows of teeth and elusive nature. Mounted within a glass dome, this display piece serves as a captivating tribute to the enigmatic beauty of this remarkable marine species.

Daldorfia Horrida crab vitrine - A truly unique crab distinguished by its pentagonal carapace in shades of brown, adorned with large rounded and pointed tubercles. It boasts unusually long claw arms with swollen palms just before the pincers. Often found encrusted with coralline algae, this specimen was retrieved from a depth of 20 meters off Davao Island in the Philippines. Presented in an exclusive handmade vitrine by One of a Kind.

Spotted Triggerfish (Canthidermis maculata) - With distinctive dark and pectoral blotches on its fins, the Spotted Triggerfish exhibits a striking appearance, turning almost black after preparation. Like other fish in the Balistidae family, it features a lyre-shaped tail. Spotted oceanic triggerfish demonstrate dietary versatility, feeding on both carnivorous and planktivorous fare. Upon examination, they have been observed consuming smaller fish, Halobates (sea skaters), members of the order 'Siphonophores,' and smaller cartilaginous fish. This specimen was fished at a depth of 30 meters in Cadiz, Negros Archipelago – Philippines.

This unique specimen is mounted in a matte grey lacquered wood vitrine crafted by One of a Kind.

An exclusive design Glass Vitrine by One of a Kind featuring three Butterflyfish. Butterflyfish are common reef fishes found in the Indo-Pacific region, with around 50 species in this family. These specimens are from Palawan Island, Philippines, and have been locally dried. While they may have lost their original color, they still retain their beauty.

Spectacular Aetobatus narinari jaws reveal the distinctive tongue of this remarkable species. Mature spotted eagle rays can reach lengths of up to 5 meters, with the largest individuals boasting a wingspan of up to 3 meters and weighing up to 230 kilograms. Spotted eagle rays primarily prey on bivalves, crabs, whelks, and other benthic invertebrates. They also consume mollusks, crustaceans—particularly malacostracans—echinoderms, polychaete worms, hermit crabs, shrimp, octopuses, and small fish.

The specialized chevron-shaped tooth structure of the spotted eagle ray aids in crushing the hard shells of mollusks. Their jaws feature calcified struts that support them and prevent damage when breaking through tough prey shells. These rays exhibit unique behavior, often observed digging with their snouts in ocean sand. This particular specimen hails from the waters of Madagascar and is presented in a double black lacquered wood mount, meticulously crafted by One of a Kind.

Crocodile Skull (Crocodylus siamensis) from a reputable crocodile farm in Thailand, supplied with its certification. This extraordinary piece, mounted on a sleek black lacquered wood base with a handmade brass support, commands attention and exudes a unique charm. With its awe-inspiring presence and impeccable craftsmanship, this crocodile skull adds an intriguing exotic touch to any space. It comes with a CITES certificate, ensuring its authenticity and responsible sourcing. Embrace the allure of this one-of-a-kind decorative treasure and get in touch with the wild side of life.

Portunus pelagicus, commonly known as the flower crab or blue crab, is a large crab species inhabiting the Indo-Pacific region. It can be found along the coasts of Indonesia, Malaysia, Cambodia, Thailand, the Philippines, and Vietnam. Additionally, it thrives in intertidal estuaries spanning most of Australia and extending eastward to New Caledonia. The species holds significant commercial importance across the Indo-Pacific, where it is sought after for its traditional hard shells or marketed as "soft-shelled" crabs, considered a delicacy in various Asian cuisines. The species is highly valued, particularly in the Persian Gulf, where it is extensively harvested for meat consumption, with females commanding higher prices than males.

Noteworthy traits such as rapid growth, ease of larviculture, high fecundity, and relatively robust tolerance to both nitrate and ammonia make Portunus pelagicus an ideal candidate for aquaculture.

This particular specimen is from Cebu, Philippines.

Guitarfish, a remarkable shark species that combines the elegance of rays and the intrigue of sharks. This exquisite creature, from Madagascar, is mounted in a splendid glass vitrine, adds a touch of natural beauty and marine allure to any decor.

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the mounted Guitarfish showcases its distinctive guitar-like shape, featuring a flattened body, elongated tail, and graceful pectoral fins. The delicate hues of brown, gray, or olive perfectly complement the surrounding environment, creating a harmonious aesthetic. Beyond its decorative appeal, the Guitarfish holds significant ecological importance. This species plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems, making it a symbol of the interconnectedness of our planet's natural wonders.

Elevate your decor with the addition of the mounted Guitarfish in its elegant glass vitrine. Let its presence spark conversations, inspire a sense of wonder, and remind us of the remarkable diversity that exists beneath the waves.

This unique specimen comes with all the necessary documentation, ensuring its authenticity and compliance with regulations.

Pair of Blue Marlin rostrum, from Madagascar.

Nicely finished and prepared in a black iron socket. These rostrum are very hard, and in antiquity it was used as a dagger, specially by Vikings. 

Blue Marlin rostrum – A work of art made in Indonesia, making a look like Narwhal tooth, handmade by local artisans.

Beautiful and unusual decor piece.

Non CITES species.

Blue Marlin rostrum – A work of art made in Indonesia, making a look like Narwhal tooth, handmade by local artisans.

Beautiful and unusual decor piece.

Non CITES species.

The Pond Slider (Trachemys scripta) is a species of common, medium-sized, semi aquatic turtle.

In Europe, Trachemys is included since 2016 in the list of Invasive Alien Species of Union concern (the Union list). It originally comes from the Gulf of Mexico, but this specimen was bred in a nursery in Emilia-Romana, Italy. This turtle have a very variable colour and pattern, some time they can exhibit exceptional looks and made them very desirable.

It's a non Cites species.

Whiptail stingrays are a family, the Dasyatidae, of rays in the order Myliobatiformes.

They are found worldwide in tropical to temperate marine waters, and a number of species have also penetrated into fresh water in Africa, Asia, and Australia. Members of this family have flattened pectoral fin discs that range from oval to diamond-like in shape. Their common name comes from their whip-like tails, which are much longer than the disc and lack dorsal and caudal fins.

All whiptail stingrays. This is a dried specimen coming from Philippines and is mounted in new design and created wood and glass vitrine with magnetic closure by One of a Kind.

The Pond Slider (Trachemys scripta) is a species of common, medium-sized, semi aquatic turtle.

In Europe, Trachemys is included since 2016 in the list of Invasive Alien Species of Union concern (the Union list). It originally comes from the Gulf of Mexico, but this specimen was bred in a nursery in Emilia-Romana, Italy. This turtle have a very variable colour and pattern, some time they can exhibit exceptional looks and made them very desirable.

It's a non Cites species.

The Pond Slider (Trachemys scripta) is a species of common, medium-sized, semi aquatic turtle.

In Europe, Trachemys is included since 2016 in the list of Invasive Alien Species of Union concern (the Union list). It originally comes from the Gulf of Mexico, but this specimen was bred in a nursery in Emilia-Romana, Italy. This turtle have a very variable colour and pattern, some time they can exhibit exceptional looks and made them very desirable.

It's a non Cites species.

Red hartbeest set of horns, in a handmade brass base, from Namibia.

Its a large African antelope of the family Bovidae. It has a longer face that other subspecies, with complex curving horns joined at the base. The average weight of a male is about 150 kg, and female is 120 kg.

Non CITES species.

Trimeresurus albolabris, snake skeleton from Indonesia in a black wood frame.

Also known as White-lipped pit Viper, venomous pit viper species endemic to Southeast Asia. Its meals consist of birds, small frogs, and small mammals. This snake doesn't strike and release its prey; like many arboreal snakes, it strikes and holds on to the prey item until the prey dies. Results of bites from this species range from mild envenoming to death.

The venom of white-lipped pitviper contains procoagulant properties. 

A pair of female Cape Eland antelope, in brass bases, from Namibia. Its the biggest of all Elands, big bulls can reach 1000 kgs.

The common eland is sometimes farmed and hunted for its meat, and in some cases can be better used than cattle because it is more suited to African climates. This has led to some Southern African farmers switching from cattle to eland. Common elands are also pictured as supporters in the coat of arms of Grootfontein, Namibia.

Non-Cites species. 

Impala horns, from Zimbabwe, in a walnut wood base.

The Impala is a medium-sized antelope found in eastern and southern Africa. Active mainly during the day, the impala may be gregarious or territorial depending upon the climate and geography. The impala is found in woodlands and sometimes on the interface (ecotone) between woodlands and savannahs; it inhabits places near water.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies the impala as a species of least concern.

Non CITES species. 

Red hartebeest set of horns, from Namibia, in a square black lacquered wood base.

Its a large African antelope of the family Bovidae. It has a longer face that other subspecies, with complex curving horns joined at the base.[4] The average weight of a male is about 150 kg, and female is 120 kg. Is a common species in South Angola, Namibia, Botswana and R. South Africa.

Non CITES species.

A pair of Zebu horns from Indonesia, mounted in a handmade satin brass finish.

Unique decor piece, from exclusive One of a Kind design.

Pair of Blue Marlin rostrum, from Madagascar.

Nicely finished and prepared in a black iron socket. These rostrum are very hard, and in antiquity it was used as a dagger, specially by Vikings. 

Shark backbone, not protected species, from Madagascar.

Supplied with black iron stand.

A beautiful glass case with six skulls of African Genet (two Geneta tigrina), Civet (two Civettictis civetta) and Black-backed Jackal (two Canis mesomelas), from Zimbabwe, Maize area.

Victorian Taxidermy

Armadillos can be found in Texas, the southern United States, throughout Central America and in northern South America.

In keeping with the Victorian taste for exotic curiosities, fashionable ladies have worn these baskets on their arm and coordinated the silk lining with their outfits.

They were also used as sewing baskets from time to time.

This is a larger one, the tail forming the handle, lined with green silk fabric, Circa 1880.

Shark backbone, not protected species, from Madagascar.

Supplied with black iron stand.