Ibex (Capra ibex)

Ibex (Capra ibex), ca. 1908: Inscribed lower edge of plaque: “IBEX, 42 IN. H.R.G. ASTOR, 1908”.
Ibex (Capra ibex), ca. 1908

Inscribed lower edge of plaque: “IBEX, 42 IN. H.R.G. ASTOR, 1908”.

Name/Title

Ibex (Capra ibex)

Entry/Object ID

2001.01.93

Description

Taxidermy - Trophy mount of mammal An Ibex is any of several species of wild goat (genus Capra), distinguished by the male's large recurved horns, which are transversely ridged in front. Ibex are found in mountainous regions of Eurasia, North Africa, and East Africa. The species is unidentified, while the size and shape of the horns indicate this trophy is a male. Ranging in height from 70-110 cm and weighing 90-120 kg, ibex can live up to 20 years. The ibex's horns appear at birth and continue to grow throughout its life.

Context

The early members of the Union Club of British Columbia enjoyed the scenic splendours and the many opportunities for sports fishing and big game hunting across the province. Over time, the Club became noted for its outstanding collection of mounted taxidermy items. Of note, in 1910 the Club loaned the collection to the Dominion Government for international exhibition in Vienna (details unknown). It appears that the mounted Wolf Eel (2001.01.100) may be the only survivor of the original early 20th century collection. For further detail - see Susan Mayse, "The Union Club of British Columbia - Our First 125 Years" (Victoria, B.C.: The Union Club of British Columbia, 2004):59, and Paul L. Bissley, "Early and Late Victorians: A History of the Union Club of British Columbia" (Sidney, B.C.: Review Printing and Publishing Co. Ltd., 1969). Both publications are available in the UCBC Library.

Made/Created

Artist Information

Artist

Unknown

Role

Taxidermist

Date made

circa 1908

Time Period

20th Century

Notes

Stuffed and mounted Ibex head and neck, with large recurved horns. Mounted on shield-shaped wood plaque with beveled edge and with inscription lower centre. Faces front.

Inscription/Signature/Marks

Type

Inscription

Location

Hand-painted in white on lower edge of wood plaque: “IBEX, 42 IN. HRG, ASTOR, 1908”.

Acquisition

Acquisition Method

Legacy collection - detail unknown