Restoration of a 130-Year-Old Lioness and an Oryx Antelope Specimen at the Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle

Paris – 27.06.2026: At the Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle, a 130-year-old specimen is currently being restored, depicting a lioness attacking an oryx antelope. Vincent Cuisset, the museum’s preparator, explains the elaborate process involved in restoring this historic artwork.

Restoring specimens from the 19th century is a demanding task, as the materials and techniques used differ from those of today. Additionally, toxic substances such as arsenic, which were previously used for preservation, can pose health risks to restorers.

In the case of the lioness and oryx antelope specimen, a thorough examination is necessary to identify the original materials and determine the best restoration method. This may include the removal of mold, stabilization of tissues, and refreshing of colors. The goal is to preserve the specimen for future generations while maintaining its historical authenticity.

The Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle, founded in 1793, houses one of the world’s largest collections of natural history, with over 68 million objects. Restoring such historical specimens is an important contribution to preserving cultural heritage and promoting understanding of the history of natural sciences.

The work of preparators like Vincent Cuisset is crucial to maintaining the connection between past and present and providing museum visitors with insight into the scientific discoveries of the 19th century. Through their careful work, it is ensured that these unique objects can continue to be admired and studied in the future.

The restoration of this specimen is not only a technical challenge but also a journey into the history of taxidermy and natural sciences. It reminds us of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage and telling the stories inscribed in these objects.

For those interested, the Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle regularly offers insights into its restoration work and the history of its collections. A visit to the museum allows one to discover the fascinating world of natural history and appreciate the significance of preserving our cultural heritage.

The restoration of this historic specimen exemplifies the commitment of the Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle to preserving knowledge and making it accessible to the public. It highlights the importance of the work of preparators and restorers who often operate behind the scenes but make a decisive contribution to safeguarding our cultural heritage.