There are a few vintage taxidermy pieces I'm interested in, but their anatomy and faces are just horrible. Can the skin itself be removed from the mount completely without serious damage? Any help is appreciated.
Rarely. There are several issues, beginning with how hides were tanned in years past; rehydrating could destroy the hide or expose you to toxic chemicals; the fact that mounted hides tend to maintain a “memory” and often will not fit any other form, etc. Best bet is to use the antlers or horns and have them remounted using a new hide.
Or the lack of tanning. Using only preserve hides not a true tan or they could be softened and reused if the glue/hide paste will release.
