Fossil Horse Skull. Mesohippus bairdi. Middle Oligocene. Brule Formation. Pennington County, South Dakota, USA... (Total: 3 Item)

Description

Fossil Horse Skull
Mesohippus bairdi
Middle Oligocene
Brule Formation
Pennington County, South Dakota, USA

A seriously "wow" specimen for any auction - or collection for that matter - this truly exquisite skull with both upper and lower components is a superb example of the early three-toed horse known as Mesohippus bairdi. The maxilla is in very nice condition, and the specimen is some 60 to 70 percent original. The restoration was clearly professionally and expertly performed, resulting in a seriously desirable specimen of a relatively uncommon variety out of the renowned White River Badlands of South Dakota. The preserved bony material is in outstanding condition as are a majority of all teeth in the jaw with only considerable restoration to the few in the frontal tips of the jaws. Most repair or restoration is apparent on the snout of the maxilla and the extremities of the skull. As expected, an abundance of the missing material is on the mandible, where there has been substantial work that is understandable since many such specimens are completely without "lowers" when discovered. Presented on a custom black metal armature for secure and dramatic display, this offering will be the focal point of any room or case where it is displayed. While much smaller, d in many other ways different from modern horses - it is easy to picture Mesohippus during the Middle Oligocene browsing the Badlands in search of food. The skull measures 8 inches (20 cm) at the longest point.
Overall Measurements: 8.27 x 6.50 x 3.35 inches (21.00 x 16.50 x 8.50 cm)

More Information: The accompanying image is a visual aid generated for illustrative purposes. It depicts the potential appearance of the extinct animal based on fossil records and ancillary factors. Please note that the rendering does not accompany the Lot.


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