Special Trophies 153 



dark blue on the dorsal surface and light gray or flesh color 

 underneath. 



A better way of finishing the base is to cut a piece of Ys- or 

 34-inch wire mesh the shape of the base, and place it in position 

 so that it encloses the bottom and underside. The edges of the 

 wire can be bent in such a way as to hold the mesh firmly in 

 place. Now cut a piece of cheesecloth the same shape. Press 

 casting compound (mixed liberally with plaster and water) 

 into the cheesecloth with a putty knife, and then cover the wire 

 mesh with the cheesecloth. When this has set, apply more 

 compound and model the material here and there until it is 

 smooth and finished. Wait until thoroughly dry before shel- 

 lacking and painting. If the blil is intended to stand upright, 

 trowel some fresh compound onto the bottom of the base and 

 press it down firmly on a greased piece of glass. In this manner 

 the base will be perfectly flat. The grease or Vaseline will 

 prevent it from sticking to the glass. If the bill is to be hung 

 on a wall, insert a looped wire into the base. 



Shark Jaws 



Sharks, like snakes, are unusually interesting to everyone, 

 even though most people may abhor them. These animals have 

 an unexplainable attraction, perhaps because they are con- 

 sidered to be dangerous and repulsive. Whatever the cause 

 may be, the fact remains that a photo or even just a mention 

 of the word "shark" draws immediate attention. Therefore, 

 the jaws of a shark mounted on an attractive plaque make an 

 excellent trophy. Place a set on your wall and you will soon 

 discover that your guests will make a beeline toward the shark 

 jaws, even though you may have more valuable objects in evi- 

 dence. 



No shark has a true bone in its bodv. The skeleton is com- 

 posed of cartilaginous material. The jaws are not hard bone; 

 therefore, care must be exercised when cutting them out of the 

 head. If you cannot work on the jaws immediately, sever the 

 head with a knife and a saw. Dispose of the bodv over the side, 



