Nigel Larkin is undertaking the conservation of a remarkable 13‑metre‑long, juvenile, North Atlantic Right whale skeleton, a critically endangered species and an important museum specimen.
The skeleton was carefully de‑installed from the museum, then meticulously dismantled, packed, and transported to Nigel’s conservation facility in Shropshire. There, every bone was individually assessed, cleaned, and conserved to ensure its long‑term stability.
As part of the project, Nigel designed a completely new metal armature to support the skeleton in a more accurate and life‑like pose. The revised design introduces a more graceful, natural curve through the spine and tail, better reflecting the movement of the whale in life.
Drawing on his blacksmithing and welding skills, Nigel fabricated the bespoke armature himself and is now remounting the skeleton bone by bone. He is currently installing the ribs, a highly precise process that requires new custom metalwork shaped exactly to support each rib correctly.
To allow for safe transport, the newly mounted whale is being constructed in sections. Once complete, the skeleton can be dismantled, loaded into a series of vans, and transported back to the museum, where it will be installed on a new plinth.
This project highlights the careful balance of conservation science, traditional craftsmanship, and engineering - ensuring that this powerful specimen can continue to educate and inspire future generations while telling the important story of North Atlantic Right whale conservation.
