Lot 1718
140 Million Year Old Bird Fossil From China. Some of the oldest birds in the fossil records have been found in the Liaoning province of China. This small 4¼ in. primitive bird, Liaoxiornis delicatus, dates from the late Jurassic period. Only Archaeopterix from Germany is older at 150 years. This virtually complete bird is remarkable in the details of its preservation. Birds have light, delicate bones that rarrely fossilize at all. Due to an enormous volcanic eruption 140 million years ago, this bird was killed by the gases and quickly buried in volcanic ash, thus preserving it intact. Today this delicate fossil is still preserved in the fragile, compacted volcanic ash that has turned to stone. Most specimens are cracked and broken, but this one is intact and has not been repaired, leaving very delicate and faint impressions available for study. There are some black feather impressions surrounding the body and wings, as well as a darker, tan wing outline clearly visible on the lighter tan matrix. The important single claws at the ends of the wings are present, as well as the curved foot claws and skull, missing only the tip of the beak. Displayed and protected in an 8¾ x 6½ in. Ryker mount. Allow $25 for shipping.
Estimated Value $1,850 - 2,750.
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| Realized $1,553 |
