Rowland Ward (1848-1912) Antique Blue Wildebeest Taxidermy Shoulder Mount

Lot description

This is a late 19th early 20th Century professional taxidermy shoulder mount of a Blue Wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus), prepared by the renowned studio of Rowland Ward, London. The specimen is presented in a naturalistic pose, featuring the characteristic dark facial blaze and inward-curving horns typical of the species. The reverse of the backboard bears a partially torn paper label for The Jungle which was what the Rowland Ward shop at 167 Piccadilly, London was referred to. Additionally, there is a handwritten inventory number 174L in white pigment on the wood. James Rowland Ward (1848-1912 was a British taxidermist and founder of the firm Rowland Ward Limited of Piccadilly, London. The company specialized in and was renowned for its taxidermy work on birds and big-game trophies. His shop at 167 Piccadilly was famously referred to as "The Jungle" throughout the British Empire. Customers included Winston Churchill, Walter Rothschild, and Kings Edward VII and George V. Blue wildebeest were a staple trophy species for Victorian and Edwardian hunters across southern and east Africa and Rowland Ward's Records of Big Game extensively catalogued them. Given that this piece originated from "The Jungle" shop it would most likely date from 1880-1920. This items provenance is noted as acquired from Christy's of New York - London. Artist: Rowland Ward Dimensions: 27.00"L x 33.00"W x 25.00"H Date or Era: Late 19th Early 20th Century Weight: 42.00 lb 3.20oz