Warning: some people may find the image in this story upsetting
A taxidermy handbag being touted as "not for the faint hearted" is being put up for auction for $1400.
The accessory for sale on Trade Me is being touted as made from a the pelt and head of a real cat.
Comments on the website include that purse is "disgusting" and "morally wrong". Another asked, "is this just a joke, or is it fur real?"
Its creator, Christchurch taxidermist Claire Third, said no animals were killed or hurt to create the piece.
She said the feral ginger tomcat died when it was hit by a car.
The purse was described as "not for the faint hearted" but some comments on the site called it morally wrong. Photo: Trade Me
Bidding on the purse, labelled a 'Real Glamour Puss' starts at $1400.
The cat handbag was described as "for the girl who has everything, but not for the faint hearted". It was a one-off purse that will "grab attention" and the buyer had the option of changing the strap to suit their taste.
The seller has other taxidermy pieces for sale. Photo: TradeMe
Trade Me has a long list of items banned from sale including some fur, endangered animals and live pets but makes no mention of taxidermy.
