Wild Animal Taxidermy Appraisal

Mounted Red Fox Head Taxidermy

This item is a taxidermy mount of a red fox head, displayed on a wooden shield or plaque. The fox head features characteristic reddish-brown fur on the upper parts, ears, and snout, transitioning to lighter, possibly grayish or off-white fur on the lower jaw and throat area. The fur appears to be in relatively good condition, with no obvious signs of significant shedding or matting, suggesting reasonable preservation. The eyes are dark and appear to be glass or acrylic, realistically set to convey a lifelike gaze. The ears are erect and pointed upwards, typical of a cautious or alert fox. The head is affixed to a dark, polished wooden shield-shaped plaque, which has a smooth, curved outline, tapering to a point at the bottom. The wood grain is visible, indicating a solid piece of timber, likely stained to achieve its deep hue. The overall size of the mount appears to be moderate, suitable for wall display in a den, office, or cabin setting. There are no visible maker's marks or signatures on the fox or the plaque from the provided image. The style of taxidermy seems consistent with late 19th to mid-20th century methods, although a more precise age would require closer inspection of the mounting techniques and materials. The craftsmanship appears to be of good quality, effectively capturing the likeness of a red fox. No visible damage or major wear is apparent, although a slight accumulation of dust might be present due to typical display conditions. The item reflects a classic form of natural history display, often associated with hunting trophies or naturalistic collections.