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1830 Montagu House natural history museum
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1830 Montagu House natural history museum
An image of Montagu (Monatgue) house and its grand staircase in the British Museum around 1830, (Great Russell street). Published in Walter Thornbury " Old and New London" Cassell and Co. 1880. Prince Puckler Muskau of Germany wrote on the 15th October 1826 " at the top of the staircase, as you enter, stand two enormous giraffes, in the character of stuffed guard, or emblems of English taste". Generally the collections were poorly curated and preserved around this time and most notable naturalists preferred their collections to go elsewhere (as was the fate of Darwins Beagle specimens)
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6346825
© PAUL D STEWART/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Beagle Black And White British Museum Charles Darwin Collectors Display Georgian Giraffe Museum Natural History Museum Specimens Taxidermy Victorian Collections Mono Chrome Montagu House Montague
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print takes us back to the grandeur of Montagu House, the original home of the British Museum's natural history museum in 1830. The image showcases a magnificent staircase that leads visitors into a world filled with wonders from the animal kingdom. As described by Prince Puckler Muskau in 1826, two towering giraffes stand guard at the top of this staircase, serving as both stuffed sentinels and symbolic representations of English taste. During this era, however, many collections within the museum were poorly curated and preserved. Even renowned naturalists like Charles Darwin preferred their specimens to be housed elsewhere. Sadly, this fate befell Darwin's own Beagle specimens. The illustration captured in this artwork transports us to a time when scientific exploration was intertwined with artistry. It reminds us of an age when taxidermy played a significant role in preserving nature's beauty for study and admiration. As we gaze upon this monochrome masterpiece, we are reminded not only of Montagu House's historical significance but also of the dedicated collectors who sought to preserve our planet's rich biodiversity for future generations. This image serves as a testament to their passion and commitment. Paul D. Stewart skillfully captures both the architectural splendor and scientific intrigue that defined Montagu House during its heyday. Through his lens, he invites us to step into history and appreciate the intricate blend of artistry and science that shaped one of Britain's most iconic museums.
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