A 11,000-year-old fossil of an Irish giant deer, owned by KU Leuven for 120 years, has been dismantled for restoration, and those interested can see the conservators at work on Saturday.
The fossil skeleton will be part of the ‘Knowledge in Sight’ exhibition this autumn, celebrating KU Leuven’s 600th anniversary.
Non-profit organisation Paleontologica Belgica is conducting the restoration for KU Leuven’s Service for Scientific Collections and Heritage.
“We are removing the old coating from the bones, applying a modern coating, removing old metal, and creating a new frame,” says Anthonie Hellemond, chairman of Paleontologica Belgica.
The previous frame, fastened with drill holes into the bones, will be repaired. Missing parts, either stolen or lost by students, will be 3D printed by Leuven Fablab. The deadline is August, as the skeleton must be exhibited at Museum M in Leuven on 10 October 2025.
“Transporting the skeleton safely is challenging due to its enormous 3-metre wide, 40-kilogram antlers,” explains geology professor Robert Speijer of KU Leuven.
The technical service will create special crates for transporting the skeleton to the museum in early September.
The entire project costs around €35,000, which includes dismantling, transport, and restoration. “While it’s not an enormous amount, it still needs to be raised,” says Hellemond. “Fortunately, we work extensively with volunteers and students.” For students, it is a unique opportunity to learn about fossil skeleton restoration and conservation.
The exhibition will run from 10 October 2025 to 22 February 2026 at Museum M in Leuven.
