Antique English Insect Cabinet from mid 1800s

by Jamie Hoffman
(Huntsville, AL)

My father, an entomologist on the side, has commissioned me to sell an insect cabinet he came across in the purchase of some butterflies. It was made by O J Janson Co., or so states the label on the back of the piece. He has documentation on its owner, a British lepidopterist named Poulter. We have NO IDEA how to sell it, but we're considering ebay. A friend of his purchased a similar one for $50,000. It's in good condition, but it's only use is for displaying butterflies.

First of all, has anyone heard of the manufacturer?

Second, does anyone here know anything useful about antique insect cabinets like this one?

Third, does anyone know anyone who collects or would be interested in insect cabinets?

I would appreciate any advice or assistance. As you might imagine, there is very little on the internet about antique insect cabinets.

I will take pictures for posting.

--Jamie