Lot 86
West Africa, Morocco, Oufaten, Devonian period, ca. 419.2 to 358.9 million years ago. This fossilized trilobite is embedded in a stone matrix and belongs to a smaller genus, previously classified as Otarion, sometimes recognized as part of the genus Cyphaspis. Featuring three free-standing spines extending from its exoskeleton, which likely served as a defense mechanism. Its cephalon (head) has a bulbous formation between the eyes, with a textured, bumpy surface. The fossil has been carefully excavated and prepared, with the trilobite positioned as if teetering atop the stone, its cephalon and pygidium (rear end) slightly enrolled. This rolling behavior was a defense tactic to protect the soft underbelly. This trilobite likely sensed a threat and may have attempted to protect itself by enrolling, but ultimately, it was unable to survive whatever natural disaster or mass extinction event occurred. Size of stone matrix: 3.25" L x 2" W x 2.5" H (8.3 cm x 5.1 cm x 6.4 cm); fossil: 1" L x 0.6" W (2.5 cm x 1.5 cm); domed case: 5.5" Diameter x 4.5" H (14 cm x 11.4 cm)
Provenance: Private Berthoud, Colorado, USA collection
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#190713
- Condition: Professionally prepared. With repairs, visible break line extends across matrix trilobite fossil. Spines are reattached. Superb preservation. Comes mounted in a plastic bell jar display case.
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