Ichthyosaur Fossil. Stenopterygius sp.. Lower Jurassic. Posidonienschiefer Formation. Holzmaden, Baden-Württem...

Description

Ichthyosaur Fossil
Stenopterygius sp.
Lower Jurassic
Posidonienschiefer Formation
Holzmaden, Baden-Württemberg, Germany

This more refined and museum-quality specimen represents the marine reptile (not a dinosaur) known as an ichthyosaur which lived in the prehistoric oceans when the dinosaurs roamed the land. Dating to the Jurassic Period, this specimen of Stenopterygius came out of the acclaimed Posidonienschiefer Shale Formation from the world-renowned Holzmaden Lagerstätte in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, known for producing numerous quality fossils of a variety of organisms. The black shale matrix that houses such fossils does provide an excellent background for bony material and other remnants. Some pieces are removed and returned to the matrix after restoration and preparation, and examination of this fossil indicates a very minimal amount of restoration. The rock is an attractive natural shape, and the brown fossil both works and contrasts with the color of its host material. The ichthyosaur measures a robust 43.5 inches (110.5 cm) in length. This "fish lizard," as its apropos name literally translates, represents a super opportunity to acquire a top-quality example of an uncommon fossil variety. With significant size, good quality, and exquisite detail of its skull, teeth, vertebrae, ribs, and flippers, this is one supremely collectible version of an uncommon variety of aquatic creature. Its overall dimensions make it ideal for a wall-hanging display.
Overall Measurements: 60.00 x 33.00 x 1.50 inches (152.40 x 83.82 x 3.81 cm)

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