These are tanned springbok skins. These skins are ideal for use as rugs and wall hangings, or they can be draped over chairs. They can be used to make pillows, handbags, placemats, Zulu warrior shields, and drum covers. The damaged skins can be cut up into smaller warrior shields, key chain fobs in the shape of the African continent, etc.
The #1 grade are very clean (no rips, tears, holes) and are not as nice as the select grade.
The hair side of the skins are quite nice. There may be minor imperfections on the hide side. These slight flaws are usually small holes that have been sewn shut or a slight rip that has been closed.
The springbok skins are about 2.5 to 3 feet long and 1.5 to 2 feet wide across the middle. Sizes will vary from skin to skin. Length is measured from shoulder to base of tail.
Measurements are derived in the following way:
- The length is measured down the middle of the hide, not including tails.
- The top width is the smallest part under the arms or front legs.
- The middle width is the smallest part across the center.
- The bottom width is from hind leg to hind leg.
Measurements of some sample hides:
Length: 32"
Width across top: 17"
Width across middle: 16.5"
Width across bottom: 23"
Length: 33"
Width across top: 19"
Width across middle: 20.5"
Width across bottom: 22.5"
Length: 45"
Width across top: 27.25"
Width across middle: 25"
Width across bottom: 30"
If you want us to help you buy in quantity directly from South Africa, please let us know if you are looking for skins for decoration or cutting. Skins for decoration will be nicer than ones for cutting. If they are for cutting, we have more options if you can ignore things like holes in the neck that do not matter or other problems.
Springbok are NOT endangered and are very common in southern Africa. They are often hunted for food. In fact, on my trips to South Africa I usually enjoy springbok steaks at a variety of restaurants.