Description:

North America, Western United States, South Dakota, Pennington County, White River / Brule Formation, Oligocene, ca. 33 to 30 million years ago. A fossilized skull of a prehistoric mammal known as an oreodont (Merycoidodon culbertsoni)- a nearly complete upper half of the skull including teeth! This fossil is in excellent condition and with only minor losses to the zygomatic arches (just behind the eye sockets) and 3 incisor teeth. The pointed canines and molar teeth are intact – the molars have the characteristic pointed high crown shape which inspired Merycoidodontoidea's common name "oreodont," translating to "mountain tooth." These extinct mammals were herbivores and had traits that are often described as pig-like and certain species ranged in size from modern day sheep to large cows. They once roamed the prehistoric North American grasslands in herds grinding up the plants with their "mountainous" teeth. Size: 6.6" L x 3.5" W x 2.3" H (16.8 cm x 8.9 cm x 5.8 cm)

Provenance: private New Jersey, USA collection

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#182393

  • Condition: Professionally prepared with repairs, but all original material. Missing 3 incisor teeth and zygomatic arch bones. Stabilizing coating added to surfaces near orbital sockets and along teeth. Excellent condition overall!

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November 30, 2023 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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