R. Prater: Shaping Natural History Curation and Conservation in India
The preservation of biodiversity and the public understanding of natural history often rely on the dedication of curators and editors who bridge the gap between scientific research and public education. One such influential figure was R. Prater, whose tenure at the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) and the Prince of Wales Museum of Western India left a lasting mark on Indian zoology and museum science.
Professional Foundations and Global Training
In 1923, Prater assumed the dual roles of curator for the BNHS and the Prince of Wales Museum of Western India, positions he would hold for the next 25 years. To elevate the standards of these institutions, he sought specialized training from the world's leading natural history centers.
His journey began in 1923 with a trip to Great Britain to master modern taxidermy—the art of preparing, stuffing, and mounting the skins of animals with lifelike effect. Four years later, he expanded his expertise by visiting the American Museum of Natural History in New York City and the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago. These visits focused on the techniques of natural history exhibition, providing him with the knowledge necessary to modernize the displays at the Prince of Wales Museum over the following two decades.
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Editorial Leadership and Conservation Advocacy
Beyond his work in curation, Prater played a pivotal role in scientific communication as the executive editor of the Journal of the Bombay Natural History Society. Under his stewardship, the journal grew significantly in international prestige.
One of Prater's most impactful innovations was the introduction of the "Wildlife Preservation in India" series in 1935. This series was instrumental in publicizing the urgent challenges facing conservation in India, bringing critical environmental issues to the forefront of public and scientific discourse.
The Book of Indian Animals
Prater's commitment to documenting India's fauna culminated in the 1948 publication of The Book of Indian Animals. This comprehensive work became a staple of natural history literature and remains in print today, currently in its third edition.
Key Facts
- Tenure: Served as curator for BNHS and the Prince of Wales Museum for 25 years starting in 1923.
- Global Training: Studied taxidermy in Great Britain and exhibition techniques in New York and Chicago.
- Editorial Impact: Executive editor of the Journal of the Bombay Natural History Society.
- Conservation Milestone: Launched the "Wildlife Preservation in India" series in 1935.
- Literary Legacy: Authored The Book of Indian Animals (1948), now in its third edition.
| Category | Contribution/Achievement | Timeline/Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Museum Curation | Curator of BNHS and Prince of Wales Museum | 1923–1948 |
| Technical Training | Taxidermy and Exhibition Design | UK, USA (New York & Chicago) |
| Journalism | Executive Editor, Journal of the BNHS | During 25-year tenure |
| Conservation | "Wildlife Preservation in India" series | Started 1935 |
| Literature | The Book of Indian Animals | Published 1948 |
Frequently Asked Questions
When did R. Prater begin his work as a curator?
R. Prater became the curator of the BNHS and the Prince of Wales Museum of Western India in 1923.
Where did Prater study natural history exhibition techniques?
He studied these techniques at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City and the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago.
What was the significance of the "Wildlife Preservation in India" series?
Launched in 1935 in the Journal of the Bombay Natural History Society, this series helped publicize and bring attention to the problems of conservation within India.
Which book did R. Prater write that is still in print?
He wrote The Book of Indian Animals, published in 1948, which has since reached its third edition.
How long did Prater serve as a curator?
He held his curatorial positions for a total of 25 years.