Abstract: This invention provides improved means for displaying and preserving specimens of various kinds, such as flower blossoms. The medium for encapsulating the specimen is a resin material which, when fully cured, is soft and pliable, having a cone penetration value of about 80 to about 400 (10-.sup.1 mm) (ASTM D217-68 or D1403-69) and an ultimate elongation of at least about 100% (ASTM D638-80 or D412). This invention also provides a system for collecting specimens, preserving and dehydrating them, and transporting them to another site where the specimens are encapsulated in the soft, pliable resin for final preservation and display.