Lionhearted Farewell: Gotha Taxidermist Retires - Master taxidermist retires after 48 years of bringing animals to life

Peter Mildner, a zoological taxidermist in Gotha, is retiring after nearly 48 years of service. His career began in 1978, during which he crafted over 1,000 animal mounts and models for the Friedenstein Foundation's exhibitions and collections.

Mildner's passion for taxidermy started early—at just seven years old, he sculpted his first model, a small wildcat. Over the decades, his work grew in scale and complexity. One of his toughest projects was a three-metre-long southern elephant seal, requiring precision and skill.

His expertise relies on sharp observation, fine handwork, and deep knowledge of animal anatomy. To perfect his craft, he collected thousands of preserved animal eyes in jars, using them as references for glass replicas. His final piece, a mounted lion named Bono, will soon be displayed in Friedenstein Palace.

Despite retiring, Mildner plans to stay involved in taxidermy. He will assist colleagues and lead workshops, ensuring his techniques endure. Yet, with no successor lined up, the future of his profession in Germany remains unclear.

Mildner's retirement marks the end of a 48-year career dedicated to preserving wildlife through taxidermy. His contributions include over 1,000 exhibition pieces, a vast collection of anatomical references, and a final lion mount for public display. The absence of a replacement raises questions about the continuity of this specialised craft in the country.