Trinkets

The carcass of a ray or a skate that has been modified by hand then dried, resulting in a mummified specimen intended to resemble a fanciful fictional creature, such as a demon or dragon. This practice dates back to the 16th century when these specimens were often sold as curiosities to sailors and collectors. The earliest known picture of Jenny Haniver appeared in Konrad Gesner's Historia Animalium vol. IV in 1558. Gesner warned that these were merely disfigured rays and should not be believed to be miniature dragons or monsters, which was a popular misconception at the time. (Rhinobatidae species, Philippines, 1990'species _ IMPORTANT NOTICE: Available for EU customers only). Average length 32 cm.