Description:

Ancient Seas, Cretaceous to Pleistocene, ca. 140.2 to 1 million years ago. A large, fossilized oyster, remarkably preserved with both shells intact and closed, featuring two symmetrical valves hinged along the dorsal margin! This prehistoric mollusk is possibly from the Pycnodonte genus, an extinct group of oysters found globally. Notably, there is a lustrous iridescence along some of the ribbed bands. The size and color of the shell ridges can indicate the oyster's health, making fossilized oysters particularly valuable to paleontologists for their role in understanding ancient marine ecosystems and sedimentary environments. This intact oyster's substantial size and detailed structure make it both a significant scientific artifact and a striking decorative piece! Size: 10" L x 6.5" W x 5.25" H (25.4 cm x 16.5 cm x 13.3 cm)

Provenance: private Constance McCormick Fearing estate, Montecito, California, USA, acquired before 2004; ex-Calico Rock & Gift Shop, California, USA.

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#188866

  • Condition: Natural pitting and striations. Some chips and small losses along the hinge, but otherwise excellent without repairs. Areas of iridescent!

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September 19, 2024 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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