Big Game Taxidermy Appraisal

Shoulder Mounted Mule Deer Trophy

This is a professional taxidermy shoulder mount of a mature Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus). The specimen features a large, symmetrical set of antlers characterized by the deep, dichotomous (forked) branching typical of the species. The antlers exhibit a dark, chocolate-brown patina with lighter, polished tips, indicating a healthy animal. The mount captures the deer in a forward-facing, alert posture. Its coat displays a seasonal grayish-brown coloration with a prominent white muzzle and cream-colored patches around the eyes and throat. The eyes are high-quality glass or acrylic replacements, set with anatomical precision to reflect a lifelike gaze. Detailed workmanship is visible in the delicate stitching around the nose and mouth areas. The ears are positioned slightly outward, consistent with a relaxed but observant state. Physically, the mount appears to be in good vintage condition, though a light layer of surface dust is visible on the hair and the bridge of the nose. There are no immediate signs of significant hair loss (slippage), pest infestation, or cracking around the fleshy parts of the face, such as the tear ducts or nostrils. The craftsmanship suggests a mid-to-late 20th-century origin, likely produced for a hunting lodge or rustic interior decor setting.