Some say the purpose of zibellini are worn so fleas would bite into the fur instead of the human, but others point out that fleas are only attracted to blood, therefore a dead animal with no blood would not be attracting much fleas. Not to mention, advertising one's personal hygiene issue back then was as unpopular as it is now, carrying a body-bug repellent would be akin to proudly toting a prescription grade deodorant. The more logical explanation is that they are simply decorations with little purpose other than showing off the wealth of wearers.
I am no goldsmith, so I made the head with polymer clay instead. This is the head pre-baking.