Lot 119
Western Europe, Germany, Eichstatt, Solnhofen (Altmuhltal) Formation, Jurassic Period, ca. 154 to 144 million years ago. Presenting a supreme example of the extinct crustacean, Eryon arctiformis, dating back to the Jurassic era, delicately preserved within a limestone slab. This exceptional lobster exemplifies a level of preservation rarely seen in fossils of its kind, notably evidenced by the intricate detail of its carapace and the delicate dendrites surrounding the claw tips. Remarkably, apart from a minor repair to stabilize a fissure, the lobster remains in its untouched, fully natural state - a rarity among fossils from the Solnhofen region. Unlike many fragmented specimens that require extensive retouching, what you see here is an authentic portrayal of prehistoric marine life, capturing the essence of an ancient era with unparalleled clarity and authenticity. Size of stone matrix: 14.5" L x 11.5" W (36.8 cm x 29.2 cm) fossil: 5.75" L (14.6 cm)
Eryon arctiformis is an extinct member of the diverse group of arthropods known as Decapoda, which includes lobsters, shrimp, prawns, and crabs. The majority of crustaceans found in the Solnhofen limestone belong to the Decapoda group. Among Solnhofen decapod fossils, shrimp species like Aeger are the most commonly found and abundant. Eryon arctiformis, classified as a lobster, resembles a crab-like creature and is one of the oldest true lobsters known to science. Lobsters, shrimp, and prawns share common features, including an elongated, segmented body with a flexible carapace covering the thorax and head, as well as multiple pairs of limbs and a fan-like tail. Due to the delicate nature and loose articulation of a decapod's carapace, the intact preservation of these creatures is quite rare.
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 Diamond Springs, California, USA collection
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#184109
- Condition: Break line that runs across the matrix and center of the fossil is repaired. Fossil is all original material with great detail.
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