Reflexive Displays: Interpreting Taxidermy Practice

This article explores reflexive approaches to interpreting natural science collections with particular reference to the making of natural science taxidermy specimens. Through an investigation into the natural science displays of a number of recently redeveloped museums, this article draws attention to some of the ways in which museums are currently interpreting taxidermy practice. These approaches are often nuanced and subtle, and using case study museums as examples, this paper aims to explore some of the ways in which museums may develop or further integrate reflexive displays into current or future exhibitions. The case studies featured in this article have been chosen primarily because they have recently been redeveloped, and therefore their displays may be considered to be indicative of contemporary trends in museology.