I have a beautiful Deer Hoof Rattle that looks as if it were prepared by someone who knew what they were doing. It was a gift and I have no idea where to look for help to further preserve it properly. The underside of the hoof is being pulverized by whatever snacks on these things.
Since it is such a well made piece I am surprised. Maybe it was preserved properly; I have no experience with this.
This is a ceremonial article so I would prefer to use a non-toxic and organic,if possible, solution.
If someone knowledgeable wouldn't mind sharing the information I'd appreciate it. Is it possible to treat the hoof without removing the decorative symbols? (feathers, beads, etc. glued on the front/top side)
Thanks very much,
Lex
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Lex , the easiest cure without ruining any of the feathers etc would be to freeze it for a week . It is being eaten by beetle larva and these will also eat the feathers . You may have to put it int he freezer every now and then . You could also try soaking the hoof in rubbing alcohol if you can . This will kill what evers in it and dry fast . Rick
Deer hoof rattles are made by boiling the hooves until the "nails" come off the toe joint. Sounds as if someone left the foot pad in place on these and now dermistids are finishing off what should have been removed anyway. Freezing will work for the ones there NOW, but others will surely come later. I'd suggest storing it in a box with moth balls or moth crystals. Once treated, store in a red cedar box.