Deyrolle on fire

The amazing Deyrolle taxidermy boutique [read about it here +] in the heart of Paris sadly suffered a major fire on February 1st, 2008.  The fire consumed most of the eccentric cabinet of curiosities on the first floor.  The insects and butterflies were the worse hit, and Deyrolle is currently seeking an entomology vendor to help replace the collection.

Read all about the fire, the store's resurrection efforts, and all the posted letters of sympathy on Deyrolle's blogsite here in French or here in English. Even Gerard Depardieu is quoted: "there are no words - it's very violent."  

Thanks to Steve Plant for letting me know the news.