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The various models used in gross anatomical studies to improve the visualization of blood vessels differ in the amount of manual labour, cost, equipment and time involved. This study aimed to compare chemical and enzymatic maceration processes for soft‐tissue removal from arterial silicone casts on skull scaffolds using ringed seal (Pusa hispida) skull specimens. Both processes produced specimens that covered all anatomical aspects required to visualize the intracranial arterial arrangement on a bone scaffold. Overall, the enzyme maceration process was better for production of such specimens, as this process is easy and safe to perform, is less harmful to the bony parts of the specimen, and the resulting specimens are visually more appealing for display and teaching. Compared with previously published models, the end result varied in the amount of dissolved bone tissue and the visual presentation of the model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Life reconstructions are a popular way for natural history museums to inspire and educate the public about the prehistoric world. Palaeontological display models combine the results of scientific research and apply this knowledge to a three-dimensional piece. No single model-making technique is optimal for all palaeontological subjects. We compare here traditional taxidermy techniques, sculpting with polymer clay, and 3D printing with resin or a filament printer to produce animal reconstructions. Using four extinct animals, the Eurasian cave lion (Panthera spelaea), a theropod dinosaur (Carnotaurus sastrei), a lobe-finned fish (Gyroptychius) and a sea scorpion (Eurypterus remipes) as examples, we study the advantages and limitations of each method and document the process of translating the results of palaeontological studies into accurate scientific models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]