UAE: Nile crocodile throne, stuffed bears, two-headed goats for sale
A throne made from a nine-foot Nile crocodile, a mounted Russian grizzly bear measuring 10 feet, a Canadian polar bear standing at seven feet, gray and white wolves, a duo of lynxes, and a two-headed baby goat could enhance the aesthetics of your dwelling. These perfectly maintained wild animals are being showcased and available for purchase at the 21st Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (Adihex).
Organizers state that Adihex, held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (Adnec) until September 8, is not just a yearly event focused on hunting, equestrian sports, and outdoor living, but also an international stage for fostering cultural interaction among countries. Its goal is to guarantee that upcoming generations maintain their ties to their history and cultural customs.
For the inaugural time, Artefactum Gallery from Dubai is taking part in Adihex to present their collection of preserved wildlife and offer an engaging experience highlighting human courage, ingenuity, and the splendor of nature.
Valeriya Khachaturova, who is the curator of Artefactum Gallery, mentioned that the most costly piece currently exhibited at the gallery is a nine-foot throne made from a Nile crocodile. Crafted from a 15-foot-long crocodile hunted by Russian gallery owner Andrey Zaykin in 2015, the throne features well-preserved skin and formidable claws.
Khachaturova, also hailing from Russia, mentioned that the throne could be purchased for $100,000 or Dh367,000.
Additional preserved animals that can be purchased include a Canadian polar bear costing Dh250,000, a fully-mounted Ussuri brown bear (also known as a Russian grizzly bear) for Dh80,000, and a Grizzly bear skin rug for Dh40,000.
They also possess a well-maintained Tibetan yak head, a two-headed baby goat, mounted butterflies, and even small meteorite fragments made into souvenirs.
In their Dubai art gallery, Khachaturova mentioned that they are selling a prehistoric sea dragon skull (Mosasaur Prognathodon Sp) for $500,000 or Dh1.835 million. She mentioned that they also own a dinosaur.
Subjected to rigid rules
Khachaturova explained that the activities conducted at Artefactum Gallery, involving the import and trade of preserved wildlife, are approved by CITES and follow different cultural regulations.
Taxidermy, also known as the art of preserving deceased animals through mounting or stuffing to create a lifelike appearance, is not magic but rather a complex skill mastered by trained professionals, as stated by Khachaturova.
"We also work with professionals who specialize in hunting," she added, "These hunters are skilled at properly taking down animals." For instance, if you were to eliminate a crocodile, it is best to aim for a precise, lethal shot to the head rather than the body to ensure it does not survive initially only to pass away later in the water.
Collection of unique and intriguing objects
Khachaturova also mentioned that safeguarding wildlife honors the idea of 'cabinet de curiosités' (cabinet of curiosities), a trend from the 17th century. Curators gathered a variety of objects that represented the art, science, and culture of the era.
She emphasized, "Our focus is on offering a distinct and engaging experience that highlights human creativity and its link to the natural world."
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