Lot 33
Western Europe, Netherlands, North Sea, Miocene to Pliocene, ca. 23 to 4.5 million years ago. A rare and large fossil vertebra from a prehistoric relative to modern sperm whales (Physeter sp.), sourced from the North Sea and among the finest specimens of prehistoric whale vertebrae collected! Such well-preserved, giant fossils are exceptionally uncommon due to predation by large sharks like Megalodon and the bone's porous nature, which typically leads to decomposition rather than fossilization. Complete and intact whale bone fossils of this size and preservation are rarely found, especially with pristine surface detail and minimal saltwater erosion. Cleaned meticulously in a lab setting, the specimen reveals intricate bone structure preserved through mineralization. Its significance extends as a testament to the ancient marine ecosystem, perfect for display alongside Megalodon shark teeth collections. This extraordinary fossil merits a place of distinction in any premier fossil collection! Size: 10.5" Diameter x 7" W (26.7 cm x 17.8 cm)
Ancient ancestors of modern toothed and sperm whales first emerged in the Oligocene (33.9 million years ago) and diversified during the Miocene and Pliocene epochs, coexisting with the colossal Megalodon shark. These whales, formidable predators themselves, likely competed with Megalodon for similar prey and were also hunted by these apex sharks. Fossil evidence frequently shows teeth marks and scars on whale bones, vividly illustrating the intense interactions between these titans of the prehistoric oceans. The co-occurrence of Megalodon teeth and whale fossils in marine deposits underscores their complex ecological relationship, highlighting a dynamic and competitive ecosystem where survival depended on size, strength, and predatory prowess.
Please note that this piece is a dropship item, meaning that it will be shipping from the consignor's location. All information regarding condition, size, stone identification, and metal content have been provided by the consignor.
Provenance: private California, USA collection
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
#187936
- Condition: No repairs or restoration. Professionally cleaned and stabilized with clear coating to seal and protect the surface. Overall great preservation!
Accepted Forms of Payment:
American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa
Shipping
Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense
Artemis Fine Arts
You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 27.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.
View full terms and conditions
| From: | To: | Increments: |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $299 | $25 |
| $300 | $999 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $1,999 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $19,999 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $49,999 | $2,500 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $20,000 |