Arsenic Animals: Is My Taxidermy Toxic?

The past was toxic. Before the days of health and safety, many homes and collections were full of potentially dangerous materials, laced with chemicals that are now known to be poisonous. 

Handling fine art and antiques is not always a straightforward situation. Even the most innocent of objects might be hiding potential hazards. Knowing what to look for will assist in avoiding skin reactions or in serious cases cariogenic, cancer-causing elements.

Above: a selection of mounted taxidermy birds

Arsenic is one of the most common toxins hiding in antiques and collectibles alongside mercury and lead. This article will cover how to approach potentially dangerous items with confidence when it comes to the safety of yourself and others.

We will also discuss how these pieces can be tested by our conservators and when you should call in expert assistance for handling, disposal, framing or the creation of a bespoke case.

Above: a taxidermy racoon displayed in a protective case

Arsenic Laced Taxidermy 

Historic taxidermy is often laced with arsenic to prevent deterioration. In the past, the use of this poison was to kill off any insect infestations before they overtook the skin and hair of a taxidermy specimen.

Above: mounted taxidermy fox, brown bear and deer

Some taxidermy pieces may contain more arsenic than others, but the most telling feature of this use is a very old animal that is still in perfect condition. Essentially, the more arsenic was used, the less likely the piece is to succumb to natural deterioration. 

Arsenic in taxidermy is not contained to the object itself, as these pieces often gather dust – allowing the chemical to spread further around a room. This can also adhere to people handling the item or giving in to the desire to stroke the creature. 

Above: a collection of antique taxidermy birds 

How do we test for arsenic? Our conservation team has a process in place for taxidermy when it enters our studio, as it is important to know exactly what we are treating and the hazards involved. After putting on protective masks, gloves and suits, a sample of the fur or dust from the taxidermy is mixed in a solution to allow for a dip stick test. This test will tell us how high the concentration of arsenic is, from non-existent to very high. 

If an item is found to be contaminated with arsenic, our approach for any client wishing to keep the piece would be to place it in a sealed frame. Depending on the size of the animal, this can either be a simple container or a wall hanging. 

Above: a collection of butterfly specimens in cases

What Are The Signs Of Arsenic?

• Very well preserved taxidermy with no signs of insect infestation
• White powdery substance seen on the eyes, nostrils or between the feathers/fur and skin on taxidermy 
• Bright green colour on historic objects and wallpaper 

The Toxic Sheep

A recent visitor to our studio was a seemingly innocent sheep, given to the client as a wedding present. Whilst we were originally approached to clean the specimen, we advised of the potential for arsenic contamination, concerned that this was on display in a family home without any casing.

Above: the sheep in our studio during arsenic testing

Many people do not know about the poisons that lurk in these antiques and so it was important for us to conduct tests in the first instance.

The test came back conclusively, with a high marker for arsenic. Our conservator wrote a detailed report on their findings, allowing us to share this discovery with all of the potential routes to take for a safe outcome and eventual display. 

Above: the arsenic testing and results from the sheep taxidermy

Where else can you find arsenic?

Arsenic can also be found in some varieties of historic paint and wallpaper, as well as pages of antique books. It was also applied to decorative wreaths, textiles and make-up. The most telling factor is a green tone, this pigment known as ‘Scheele’s Green’ is now considered to be highly toxic, especially following prolonged exposure. 

Above: a detail of 19th century wallpaper that may include an arsenic green pigment

In 1903, the British government put a ban in place for the use of arsenic in food and did not cover the use of it in decorative objects or homeware. Therefore, we can easily find arsenic in antiques up until the mid 20th century. For taxidermy, arsenic was used as far as the 1980s. 

Approaching Potentially Toxic Items

When items are unstable or flaking, they are at higher risk of shedding toxic elements, often the case following water or fire damage.

If you have concerns about an item, the first step should be to avoid touching it. If the item cannot avoid being handled, ensure full PPE is worn including a mask and gloves. Keep the item covered when it is in storage. 

We recommend calling our team for a discussion in the first instance, allowing a plan of action to be formed. We can safely handle and transport potentially toxic antiques and test them in our studio for confirmation of the materials. Once this has been reported, we can give full details and offer any next steps for restoration and display.  

How can we help?

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch. As part of our service we offer a nationwide collection and delivery service as well as information on worldwide shipping to our studio. E-mail us via info@fineart-restoration.co.uk or call 0207 112 7576 for more information.