Lot 87A
North America, United States, Wyoming, Green River Formation, Eocene Epoch, ca. 53.5 to 48.5 million years ago. A large fossilized fish, Phareodus encaustus, preserved within a fine-grained limestone matrix. This predatory freshwater species is wonderfully captured here, with superb definition to both skeletal and soft tissue remains. The slightly agape jaws reveal its formidable sharp, needle-like teeth - perfect for preying upon smaller fish such as the prehistoric Knightia. The spine, operculum (gill cover), and pectoral fin rise above the surrounding matrix, adding depth and dimensionality to the specimen. Rich caramel and umber hues of the fossil contrast beautifully against the pale stone, highlighting the fine anatomical detail from head to tail. A classic display piece from Wyoming's world-famous Green River Formation. Size of matrix: 16" L x 0.8" W x 10.25" H (40.6 cm x 2 cm x 26 cm); 10.5" H (26.7 cm) on included custom stand; fish: 12.25" L x 6" W (31.1 cm x 15.2 cm)
The sediment from the Green River Formation was deposited over a 5-million-year span, the layers of flora and fauna may not have fossilized at the same time - but make for interesting composites. The Eocene world was the warmest of the Cenozoic (our current era), with an average mean temperature around 86 F (30 C) (for comparison, the average mean temperature in the last seventy years is around 58 F (14 C). Although the map of the Earth's surface would have been very recognizable to us today, with most of the continents in place and India moving close to its current position, there were basically no ice caps and huge swaths of the landscape were covered with water, including vast inland seas. This impressive aquarium like arrangement creates a rare scene from a prehistoric environment that was drastically different than what the semi-arid Wyoming landscape of today!
Provenance: private Berthoud, Colorado, USA collection
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#197669
- Condition: Professionally prepared, with minor loss to matrix on lower edge. Two fissures stabilized on the lower edge that radiate into the fossil, with minor area of infill on the gills. Amazing preservation to the bone and some of the soft tissue. Matrix verso is covered with plaster for stability. Comes with custom stand.
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