Western Europe, Germany, Eichstatt, Solnhofen (Altmuhltal) Formation, Jurassic period, ca. 183 to 175.6 million years ago. An incredible fossilized prehistoric dragonfly relative in the Mesuropetala family that is centered within a square limestone matrix. The 2 sets of flat wings have faint veining (venation) impressions, and the compound eyes, slender abdomen, and slightly raised thorax are a few shades darker than the surrounding limestone and a comfortable distance from the edges. Fossilized insects are a rarity due to their fragile exoskeletons, but the Solnhofen formation was the perfect environment for preserving these ancient fliers. Size (fossil): 3.3" L x 2.75" W (8.4 cm x 7 cm); (matrix): 11.25" L x 0.5" W x 9" H (28.6 cm x 1.3 cm x 22.9 cm); 10" H (25.4 cm) on included custom stand.
Provenance: private Berthoud, Colorado, USA collection
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#171621
Condition
Professionally excavated and prepared. Repairs to matrix. A nearly indiscernible hair line fissure radiates across thorax of fossil. Small abrasion to limestone near wingtip. Great orientation and centered on stone.