Fossil Fish Mosaic Triptych. Phareodus encaustus, Priscacara liops, & Knightia eocaena. Eocene. Green River Format... (Total: 3 Items)

Description

Fossil Fish Mosaic Triptych
Phareodus encaustus, Priscacara liops, & Knightia eocaena
Eocene
Green River Formation
Wyoming, USA

Each of the mosaic-tiled panels of this Fossil Fish Triptych is duly impressive on its own. When presented as a trio, the visual impact becomes hard to quantify. Each of the sections of the "triple threat" piece weighs some 57 kilograms (125 pounds) and measures almost 66 inches (167 cm) in height by about 34 inches (86 cm) wide. Each of the panels is framed in a dark stained wood, which provides a wonderful border and finished appearance to the set of mosaic works. All of the square tiles represent Limestone out of quarries from the famed Green River Formation Lagerstätte in the southwest corner of Wyoming, and some, obviously, feature iconic fossil fish specimens out of the prolific locality, which date to the Eocene some 50 million years ago. The combination of the expert preparation work performed for each tile to be cut and added and the superb preservation inherent in the fossil material of the sites results in these outstanding murals. Reinforced backings and a metal cleat system allow these majestic panels to be easily, safely, and securely installed in any suitable environment. The abundant array of fossil fish includes a "school" of 21 examples of Knightia eocaena swimming across the middle of the three panels, when side by side, as well as 5 less common Priscacara liops at the top of two of the three panels. The third panel also contains a single Phareodus encaustus, which, in terms of rarity, is the star of this ancient aquatic diorama. The predatory carnivore of the Green River is not often seen in such murals, typically populated by more common species. The dark, rich fossils on these three panels exhibit a pleasing brownish coloration in contrast to the much lighter tan, gray, and cream hues of the matrix. The rocky background has the ideal blend of tiles with and without fossil remains, and the overall decorative potential of this offering cannot be understated. These colossal panels are all in finer condition, with only minor chipping to the sedimentary background and minor scratching to the wooden framing, both likely just due to being moved and transported.
Each Panel Measures: 65.75 x 34.00 x 3.00 inches (167.00 x 86.36 x 7.62 cm)

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