By now, most people are aware that my father is/was a taxidermist and many in my family hunt. I do not, as I have stated numerous times. However, because of my family background, I know a lot about animals - and fish and birds as well, believe it or not! Which is why I was SHOCKED when I was at the RTIA Show in 2024 and saw a guy with a 4-horned animal skull! I had literally never seen anything like it before. Of course, I had to go over and meet him and find out more about this amazing skull.
The name "Jacob sheep" comes from the Bible's Book of Genesis, which describes Jacob's flock of spotted sheep. The story is considered to be the earliest record of selective breeding. Jacob sheep were known as "Spanish sheep" for much of their early history. They were bred in England for at least 350 years, and were used as ornamental sheep on British estates. Jacob sheep were first imported to North America in the early 20th century for zoos. More imports occurred in the 1950s and 1970s.
I decided that my very next skull purchase was going to be a Jacob Sheep. I found this amazing skull on EBay, which I usually avoid because I hate the format of the app. But, when you are looking for something specific, I will go anywhere to find my heart's desire. The seller said he had "minor flaws", but mostly it was just old and dusty from being stored in a barn for many years. I cleaned him up, made a few repairs and went to work.
Jack is one of my favorites so far - Yes, I do say that about all of them, but how could you not love Jack! He is amazing! My favorite parts are the variegated stone border framing his face and his earring!
I originally named him Jacob, but as we were photographing a videotaping, one of us said he looked like a pirate and he was re-named on the spot after every 55+ woman's dream pirate - Johnny Depp as Jack Sparrow in the Pirates of the Caribbean. Don't be surprised if you find a broken rum bottle near his driftwood stand.
As always - he just makes me happy!