Cape Buffalo Shoulder Mount

Object/Artifact

-

St. Joseph Museums

The image depicts a mounted buffalo head on a blue wall, with its horns curved in a downward arc, prominently displayed above an open doorway within an interior space. The buffalo's expression is calm yet stern, creating an imposing appearance that draws the viewer's attention. Adjacent to the buffalo are framed photographs and a QR code, suggesting the presence of historical or informational displays on the wall. The image's composition, featuring the contrast between the warm tones of the buffalo and the cool blue background, generates a dynamic visual contrast. The ceiling is painted similarly to the walls, camouflaging the ductwork, while the adjacent room is visible through the door, revealing hints of interior decor with bottles and signs, evoking a sense of curiosity about the rest of the space. This combination of taxidermy and decor tells a story of its setting, possibly a themed venue where rustic and historical elements coalesce, or perhaps a museum dedicated to wildlife or cultural exhibits, integrating educational aspects with aesthetic elements.

The image depicts a mounted buffalo head on a blue wall, with its horns curved in a downward arc, prominently displayed above an open doorway within an interior space. The buffalo's expression is calm yet stern, creating an imposing appearance that draws the viewer's attention. Adjacent to the buffalo are framed photographs and a QR code, suggesting the presence of historical or informational displays on the wall. The image's composition, featuring the contrast between the warm tones of the buffalo and the cool blue background, generates a dynamic visual contrast. The ceiling is painted similarly to the walls, camouflaging the ductwork, while the adjacent room is visible through the door, revealing hints of interior decor with bottles and signs, evoking a sense of curiosity about the rest of the space. This combination of taxidermy and decor tells a story of its setting, possibly a themed venue where rustic and historical elements coalesce, or perhaps a museum dedicated to wildlife or cultural exhibits, integrating educational aspects with aesthetic elements.

Name/Title

Cape Buffalo Shoulder Mount

Entry/Object ID

2026.7.1

Description

Cape Buffalo Shoulder Mount from Botswana In memory of Roy and Ada Coy

Context

"Mr. Coy was the director of the St. Joseph and Pony Express Museums for over 23 years. At the invitation of Dr. Alfred Bailey, Director of the Denver Museum of Natural History, he moved to Denver as Dr. Bailey’s Assistant Director in 1968 and shortly after led a safari to Botswana where he gathered material for the museum’s African Hall. He was made Director of the museum shortly after (I think about 1970) upon Dr. Bailey’s retirement. Roy left Denver himself several years later and lectured nationally and internationally using films he had made in his travels, including an hour-long presentation on Botswana (featuring rare footage of the Kung! San Bushmen)." - Harrison Hartley

Ethnography

Cultural Region

Continent

Africa

Notes

Botswana

Lexicon

Nomenclature 4.0

Nomenclature Primary Object Term

Mount, Taxidermy

Nomenclature Sub-Class

Decorative Furnishings

Nomenclature Class

Household Accessories

Nomenclature Category

Category 02: Furnishings

Dimensions

Length

44 in

Dimension Notes

26" from the base, 41" from the horns