Foma Ignatiev

In 1719 Russian Czar opened what is considered to be the first public museum.

Amongst the numerous displays of natural and artistic curiosities were a few living human wonders.

One such wonder was Foma Ignatiev, who was born with fused fingers and toes, commonly known as Lobster Syndrome. 

Upon his death his body was preserved by taxidermic means and continued to be a popular display in Peter  the Great's Kunstkammer. 

It has been suggested that Foma was probably a "horrific display" as taxidermy of the day was performed by upholsterers.   Prepared skins were literally stuffed rather than being fitted to a sculpted armature.  

This a popular contemporary presumption perpetrated by the majority of modern taxidermists.

There are many stunningly beautiful antique examples of stuffed animals (and furniture) as well as numerous examples of hideous mounts done on  sculpted armatures and pre-made forms.

Skilled observation and attention to detail is just that: regardless of technique.