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Parnham Park
Beaminster, Dorset
DT8 3LZ
United Kingdom
Parnham Park: A Modern Grand Tour on the Jurassic Coast
Auction at Dreweatts Newbury | Viewing at Parnham Park | For further details, please click "Important information" link.
This highly anticipated auction showcases the personal collection of the visionary art collector James Perkins. Experience a geographical and historical journey, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to acquire iconic objects spanning The Jurassic, natural history and bespoke designs. Read more...!
Auction at Dreweatts Newbury | Viewing at Parnham Park
Entrance with catalogue only (admits two) | Parnham Park, Beaminster, Dorset DT8 3LZ | www.parnhampark.co.uk
To purchase a printed catalogue, click here: Catalogue Subscriptions.
Auction dates
13 May 2025 10:30 BST
Viewing dates
09 May 2025 10:30 - 17:00 BST
10 May 2025 10:30 - 17:00 BST
11 May 2025 10:30 - 17:00 BST
12 May 2025 10:30 - 17:00 BST
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26 % (exc. VAT) |
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Featured lots
We found 48 items matching your search
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AN AMMONITE (CEPHALOPODA) ON A MODERN METAL STAND
34cm high, 30cm wide overall
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A POLISHED AMMONITE (CEPHALOPOD)
On a modern metal stand
32cm high overall
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1,000 - 1,500 GBP
A POLISHED AMMONITE (CEPHALOPOD)
MADAGASCAN
On a modern metal stand
38cm high, 43cm wide overall
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Y A COCO DE MER SEED (LODOICEA MALDIVICA)
35cm x 32cm
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A PAIR OF MINERAL STALACTITES 78cm and 74cm high approximately
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AN AMMONITE, A FOSSILISED TREE FERN AND A MAMMOTH'S TOOTH
Contained in a modern glazed brass display case with hinged top
The case 19cm high, 55cm wide, 40cm deep
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SEVEN PAINTED NATURAL SCIENCE TEACHING MODELS LATE 19TH CENTURY, PROBABLY GERMAN Contained within a modern glazed brass display case with hinged top The case 19cm high, 55cm wide, 40cm deep
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TWO AMMONITES (CEPHALOPODS), A CAMPANILE GASTROPOD GIGATEUM FOSSIL, A MIOCENE 'MEGALODON' FOSSIL SHARK TOOTH AND A WASP'S NEST
Contained within a modern glazed brass display cabinet with hinged top
The case 19cm high, 55cm wide, 40cm deep
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Y SIX VARIOUS CORAL SPECIMENS
Contained within a modern glazed brass display cabinet with hinged top
The case 19cm high, 55cm wide, 40cm deep
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12,000 - 18,000 GBP
‡ HALISAURUS ARAMBOURGI (LATE CRETACEOUS)
MAASTRICHTIAN
PHOSPHATE BEDS
OUED ZEM MOROCCO
approx 45cm high, 77cm long, 34cm deep
Halisaurus Arambourgi is an intriguing extinct species of marine reptile from the Late Cretaceous period, approximately 80 million years ago. Halisaurus Arambourgi belongs to the family Halisauridae , within the order Squamata , which includes modern lizards and snakes. While closely related to the more famous mosasaurs, Halisaurus Arambourgi was not a true mosasaur, but rather a distinct genus that shared similar adaptations for life in the sea. Characterized by a long, slender body, a relatively short head, and a tail that was highly specialized for propulsion through the water, this carnivorous reptile would have preyed on smaller marine life, including fish and invertebrates. Fossilized remains of this species have been discovered in the Cretaceous sediments of Morocco, providing valuable insights into the diverse and dynamic marine ecosystems that existed during the Mesozoic era. The discovery of Halisaurus Arambourgi adds to our understanding of the variety of reptiles that inhabited ancient seas, showcasing the evolutionary ingenuity of life during this period.
■ After the sale this lot will remain at Parnham Park, Beaminster, DT8 3LZ, where it will be available for collection
Condition Report:
Condition Report Disclaimer
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A FOSSILISED CAMPANILE GIGANTUM SHELL
52cm long
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A MAMMOTH JAW WITH TEETH
47cm wide
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1
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Estimate
2,000 - 3,000 GBP
Y A SHOEBILL (BALAENICEPS REX) SKELETON On mahogany stand 116cm high,107cm long overall
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A MAMMOTH LEG BONE
90cm long approximately
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Y A RARE SOUTH ISLAND BROWN KIWI (APTERYX AUSTRALIS) SKELETON
On a black painted wood base
46cm high, 44cm wide overall
Provenance:
Emma Hawkins 'A Natural World', Sotheby's London, 19th January, 2023, lot 116.
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TWO AMETHYST GEODES OF LARGE SIZE
The largest 55cm wide
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3,000 - 5,000 GBP
Y A TAXIDERMY MODEL OF A MALE LION (PANTHERA LEO)
With an associated gilt metal crown
136cm high overall
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120,000 - 180,000 GBP
‡ ICHTHYOSAUR (STENOPTERYGIUS SP)
TOARCIAN, LOWER JURASSIC
(ca. 195 MA)
Holzmaden, Germany
approx 212cm high, 280cm wide, 90cm deep (including stand)
Ichthyosaurs, a group of extinct marine reptiles, were among the first fossils to be scientifically discovered and described in Europe. The earliest finds date back to the late 17th century in the United Kingdom, marking a significant moment in the history of palaeontology.
In 1811, Mary Anning, along with her brother Joseph, made a ground breaking discovery in Lyme Regis along the Jurassic Coast of Dorset-one of the earliest and most complete Ichthyosaur specimens ever found. This fossil was later described in the first scientific publication dedicated to the species, a pivotal moment in the history of paleontological research. Mary Anning (1799-1847), an English fossil collector, dealer, and self-taught palaeontologist, became internationally renowned for her numerous fossil discoveries along the cliffs of Lyme Regis. Her work laid the foundations for many important advancements in the study of prehistoric life and the Earth's ancient history. Despite the scientific importance of her contributions, Anning was excluded from formal recognition due to the gender biases of her time. She was not allowed to join the Geological Society of London, nor did she receive the credit she deserved during her lifetime. However, in 2010, 163 years after her death, the Royal Society finally acknowledged her profound impact by naming her one of the ten British women who most influenced the history of science.
While the United Kingdom remains a historically significant site for the discovery of Ichthyosaur fossils, it is in Germany, specifically in the Konservat-Lagerstätte of the Posidonia Shale at Holzmaden, that some of the most extraordinary and exceptionally preserved specimens have been found. These fossil beds, dating to the Early and Middle Jurassic periods, are renowned for their exceptional preservation conditions, providing some of the most complete and remarkable Ichthyosaur specimens ever discovered. The two specimens offered in this auction originate from this renowned site, dating back approximately 180 million years. The exceptional preservation of these fossils makes them highly prized among collectors and institutions alike, as they offer invaluable insights into the prehistoric world.
Ichthyosaur fossils that are presented "on slab," meaning they are shown as they were found in the fossil beds with the bones still embedded in the surrounding rock matrix, are among the most coveted specimens in the natural history auction market. These fossils are highly sought after, not only because of their historical and scientific significance but also for the impressive display of preservation they represent. Over the years, such fossils have consistently fetched remarkable prices at high-end natural history sales, a testament to their allure and rarity. The two Ichthyosaur specimens in this sale have been carefully selected for their outstanding preservation and represent some of the finest examples of their kind.
The "flat" preservation of these fossils, with the bones deeply embedded within the matrix, presents significant challenges in preparation. Transforming these fossils into three-dimensional specimens requires specialized expertise and the use of highly sophisticated techniques. Only a select number of specialized fossil preparation labs around the world possess the skill and resources necessary to undertake such delicate work. Among these, Zoic, a renowned Italian company, stands out for its exceptional ability to prepare fossils with precision. Zoic's previous work includes the preparation of "Anna," a complete, three-dimensional skeleton of an Ophthalmosaurus-an Ichthyosaur from the Middle Jurassic of Kansas, USA. The extraordinary preservation and scientific value of these specimens, combined with the specialized labour involved in their preparation, make them truly remarkable objects of study and admiration in the field of palaeontology.
These specimens, with their unparalleled preservation and historical significance, represent not only a fascinating window into Earth's distant past but also a rare opportunity for collectors to acquire pieces of natural history that are both scientifically important and stunningly beautiful.
■ After the sale this lot will remain at Parnham Park, Beaminster, DT8 3LZ, where it will be available for collection
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1
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Estimate
2,000 - 3,000 GBP
Y A TAXIDERMY MODEL OF A ZEBRA (EQUUS QUAGGA)
128cm high
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1
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6,000 - 8,000 GBP
A LARGE AMETHYST CLUSTER 44cm high, 78cm wide, 62cm deep approximately
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Y A WALRUS (ODOBENUS ROSMARUS) SKULL On a modern wooden base 49cm high, 35cm long
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1
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15,000 - 25,000 GBP
‡ FOSSIL FLAMINGO (PALAELODUS)
MIDDLE OLIGOGENE - MIDDLE
MIOCENE (29-13 MA)
FRANCE
Fossil Heron Skeleton
approx 63.5cm high, 78cm wide (including stand)
Palaelodus is an extinct genus of bird belonging to the Palaelodidae family, which is distantly related to the modern flamingos. This genus is recognized for its distinctive slender physique, characterized by long, thin legs and a long neck, resembling that of its modern relatives. However, despite these similarities, Palaelodus likely led a lifestyle quite different from that of flamingos. Instead, it is thought to have lived a more solitary and predatory lifestyle, similar to that of modern herons, rather than the social, filter-feeding behavior typical of flamingos. The genus was first formally described in 1863 by the renowned French paleontologist Alphonse Milne-Edwards, based on fossilized remains uncovered in the early Miocene deposits of the Saint-Gérand-le-Puy region in France.
Over the years, additional skeletal fragments of Palaelodus have been discovered in other early Miocene sites across France and Germany, including notable locations such as the Mainz Basin and Nördlinger Ries. These findings have provided valuable insights into the bird's morphology and lifestyle. However, complete specimens of Palaelodus remain exceedingly rare, with most discoveries consisting of isolated bones and incomplete skeletons. As such, fully intact fossils of this bird genus are highly sought after by collectors and paleontologists alike, making this particular specimen an extraordinary rarity in the field of fossil avian research.
■ After the sale this lot will remain at Parnham Park, Beaminster, DT8 3LZ, where it will be available for collection
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Y A TAXIDERMY RED AND GREEN MACAW (ARA CHLOROPTERUS)
On a branch and base
70cm high overall
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Estimate
1,500 - 2,500 GBP
Y A PAIR OF ROUNDELS DISPLAYING SHARK TEETH MODERN, BY A MODERN GRAND TOUR 101cm diameter
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A FOSSILISED TRILOBITE
45cm high, 43cm wide
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1
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Estimate
200,000 - 300,000 GBP
‡ WOOLLY MAMMOTH (MAMMUTH PRIMIGENIUS)
UPPER PLEISTOCENE
POLAND
approx 300cm high, 500cm long, 185cm deep
This outstanding specimen of Mammuthus primigenius , the iconic woolly mammoth, offers a rare and extraordinary glimpse into the prehistoric world of the Pleistocene epoch. Once abundant across the vast, cold landscapes of the Northern Hemisphere, woolly mammoths were a defining species of their time. Known for their remarkable size, thick fur, and long, curved tusks, these majestic creatures were adapted to survive in the harsh, ice age environment. Fossils of this species are highly prized by collectors and researchers due to their incredible historical and scientific value.
This particular fossil is in exceptional condition, showcasing well-preserved features that offer a wealth of insight into the life and morphology of this magnificent creature. The preserved elements of the specimen-whether bones, tusks, or teeth-serve as invaluable records of the mammoth's physiology and its role in the ecosystems of the time. The remarkable preservation is a testament to the conditions that allowed such fossils to survive for thousands of years, despite the passage of time and the changing climate.
Mammuthus primigenius played a significant role in shaping the environments of the Pleistocene, from their grazing habits that impacted the vegetation to their interactions with other species, including early humans. Their eventual extinction, likely due to a combination of climate change and hunting pressure, marks the end of a significant chapter in Earth's natural history. Specimens such as this one are increasingly rare, making them not only a highly coveted addition to any collection but also a critical asset for scientific study.
This fossil is a unique opportunity for collectors, museums, and natural history enthusiasts to acquire a tangible piece of the past. Its historical and cultural significance, combined with its outstanding preservation, ensures that it is a highly desirable and important item in the world of palaeontology and natural history. Whether for display or further research, this lot represents a once-in-a-lifetime chance to own a piece of the ancient world.
■ After the sale this lot will remain at Parnham Park, Beaminster, DT8 3LZ where it will be available for collection
Featured lot
Provisionally sold
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Declined
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Leading
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1
Max bid
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Estimate
15,000 - 25,000 GBP
‡ GIANT DEER SKULL (MEGALOCEROS GIGANTEUS)
MIDDLE PLEISTOCENE
DNEIPER RIVER, KAMIANSKE
UKRAINE
130cm high, 240cm wide, 60cm deep
The Irish elk ( Megaloceros Giganteus ), also known as the 'Giant Deer' or 'Irish Deer', is an extinct species of deer that once roamed across Eurasia during the Pleistocene. This magnificent creature is among the largest deer to have ever lived, with antlers that could span up to 3.5 meters (11 feet) across, the largest known of any deer species. The range of the Irish elk extended from Ireland, where its remains are frequently found in peat bogs, to as far east as Lake Baikal in Siberia. The last known populations of this species are believed to have survived in western Russia until approximately 7,700 years ago. The first scientific descriptions of the Irish elk's remains were made by Irish physician Thomas Molyneux in 1695. Molyneux identified large antlers found at Dardistown, Ireland-antlers that were commonly unearthed throughout the country-as belonging to a species of elk (commonly known as the moose in North America). Molyneux concluded that these large animals had once been abundant on the island, though at the time, the full extent of the species' range and size was not understood.
The Irish elk was first formally named Alce Gigantea by Johann Friedrich Blumenbach in his Handbuch der Naturgeschichte in 1799. Blumenbach's classification marked the beginning of the formal scientific understanding of the species, which was later reclassified under the genus Megaloceros. Despite its name, the Irish elk is not closely related to the modern elk (Cervus canadensis); rather, it is more closely related to the fallow deer (Dama).
Fossils and specimens of the Irish elk are highly prized by collectors and institutions, with the species' immense size, distinctive antlers, and historical significance making them remarkable and valuable artefacts in the field of natural history.
■ After the sale this lot will remain at Parnham Park, Beaminster, DT8 3LZ where it will be available for collection
Featured lot
Provisionally sold
Leading
Won
Outbid
Lost
Declined
Reserve not met
Leading
Quantity
1
Max bid
GBP
Estimate
50,000 - 80,000 GBP
‡ ICHTHYOSAUR (STENOPTERGIUS SP)
TOARCIAN, LOWER JURASSIC
(ca. 195MA)
Holzmaden, Germany
approx 100cm high, 250cm wide
Ichthyosaurs, a group of extinct marine reptiles, were among the first fossils to be scientifically discovered and described in Europe. The earliest finds date back to the late 17th century in the United Kingdom, marking a significant moment in the history of palaeontology.
In 1811, Mary Anning, along with her brother Joseph, made a ground breaking discovery in Lyme Regis along the Jurassic Coast of Dorset-one of the earliest and most complete Ichthyosaur specimens ever found. This fossil was later described in the first scientific publication dedicated to the species, a pivotal moment in the history of paleontological research. Mary Anning (1799-1847), an English fossil collector, dealer, and self-taught palaeontologist, became internationally renowned for her numerous fossil discoveries along the cliffs of Lyme Regis. Her work laid the foundations for many important advancements in the study of prehistoric life and the Earth's ancient history. Despite the scientific importance of her contributions, Anning was excluded from formal recognition due to the gender biases of her time. She was not allowed to join the Geological Society of London, nor did she receive the credit she deserved during her lifetime. However, in 2010, 163 years after her death, the Royal Society finally acknowledged her profound impact by naming her one of the ten British women who most influenced the history of science.
While the United Kingdom remains a historically significant site for the discovery of Ichthyosaur fossils, it is in Germany, specifically in the Konservat-Lagerstätte of the Posidonia Shale at Holzmaden, that some of the most extraordinary and exceptionally preserved specimens have been found. These fossil beds, dating to the Early and Middle Jurassic periods, are renowned for their exceptional preservation conditions, providing some of the most complete and remarkable Ichthyosaur specimens ever discovered. The two specimens offered in this auction originate from this renowned site, dating back approximately 180 million years. The exceptional preservation of these fossils makes them highly prized among collectors and institutions alike, as they offer invaluable insights into the prehistoric world.
Ichthyosaur fossils that are presented "on slab," meaning they are shown as they were found in the fossil beds with the bones still embedded in the surrounding rock matrix, are among the most coveted specimens in the natural history auction market. These fossils are highly sought after, not only because of their historical and scientific significance but also for the impressive display of preservation they represent. Over the years, such fossils have consistently fetched remarkable prices at high-end natural history sales, a testament to their allure and rarity. The two Ichthyosaur specimens in this sale have been carefully selected for their outstanding preservation and represent some of the finest examples of their kind.
The "flat" preservation of these fossils, with the bones deeply embedded within the matrix, presents significant challenges in preparation. Transforming these fossils into three-dimensional specimens requires specialized expertise and the use of highly sophisticated techniques. Only a select number of specialized fossil preparation labs around the world possess the skill and resources necessary to undertake such delicate work. Among these, Zoic, a renowned Italian company, stands out for its exceptional ability to prepare fossils with precision. Zoic's previous work includes the preparation of "Anna," a complete, three-dimensional skeleton of an Ophthalmosaurus-an Ichthyosaur from the Middle Jurassic of Kansas, USA. The extraordinary preservation and scientific value of these specimens, combined with the specialized labour involved in their preparation, make them truly remarkable objects of study and admiration in the field of palaeontology.
These specimens, with their unparalleled preservation and historical significance, represent not only a fascinating window into Earth's distant past but also a rare opportunity for collectors to acquire pieces of natural history that are both scientifically important and stunningly beautiful.
■ After the sale this lot will remain at Parnham Park, Beaminster, DT8 3LZ where it will be available for collection
Featured lot
Provisionally sold
Leading
Won
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Lost
Declined
Reserve not met
Leading
Quantity
1
Max bid
GBP
Estimate
5,000 - 8,000 GBP
Y A TAXIDERMY AFRICAN GIRAFFE
390cm high, 145cm long approximately
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1
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Estimate
15,000 - 25,000 GBP
‡ SABALITES SP.
EOCENE (53.5-48.5MA)
Green River Formation
Wyoming, USA
Fossil Palm Frond
approx 200cm high, 200cm wide
Palm fronds represent one of the rarest and most exquisite types of fossils, highly sought after by collectors due to their exceptional beauty and the difficulty of their preservation. The delicate, thin leaves of palm trees are usually among the first to decay and are therefore seldom fossilized. However, when they do survive the ravages of time, they offer an incredibly rare and valuable window into the distant past. Approximately 50 million years ago, much of North America, including regions as far north as Alaska, was blanketed by dense, tropical forests. These lush ecosystems thrived in the warm, humid climate that spanned much of the continent during the Paleogene period. Today, the fossils of these tropical plants-often found in areas that are now inhospitable to such life-serve as silent witnesses to this vanished world. The palm frond we see here grew in a time when the Rocky Mountains were still forming, around 15 million years after the extinction of the dinosaurs, providing a direct link to this rich and diverse ancient environment.
The palms that grew along the shores of the Green River Formation flourished in a warm, freshwater lake setting, a perfect habitat for these tropical plants. Over time, some of the fronds detached from their parent trees and were carried by winds or water into the lake. Once submerged, the fronds found their way to the anoxic (oxygen-deprived) depths of the lake, where the unique preservation conditions were ideal. The waters of the lower layers of the lake contained little to no oxygen, which greatly slowed down bacterial decomposition and prevented scavengers from disturbing the remains. This lack of oxygen created an almost perfect environment for fossilization, as the soft tissue of plants and animals could remain intact for millions of years. As the fronds sank to the lake's bottom, they were gradually covered by fine layers of calcium carbonate sediment, which gently buried them over time. This slow accumulation of sediment allowed for the preservation of remarkable detail, ultimately leading to the fossil we see today.
The Green River Formation, located in Wyoming, is one of the most famous and significant Lagerstätten in the world. Lagerstätten are geologically unique sites that provide exceptionally well-preserved fossils, often including delicate soft parts that are rarely preserved elsewhere in the fossil record. The Green River Formation is particularly renowned for its stunning diversity of fossils, including not only fish but also plant life and even rare specimens of soft-bodied insects. The fine-grained limestone matrix in which these fossils are preserved is so meticulously detailed that it has captured even the smallest features of plants, such as fallen leaves, in remarkable clarity. This kind of preservation is a rarity in the fossil world, as most plants decompose rapidly before they can be fossilized. In addition to plant remains, the formation has also yielded fossils of insects, with soft parts, such as wing membranes and the fine threads of spider webs, preserved in astounding detail. The fossil site itself was first mentioned in the journals of early explorers and missionaries, such as S. A. Parker in 1840 and J. C. Fremont in 1845, who were among the first to document the area's rich fossil deposits.
This fossil palm frond is a stunning example of the remarkable preservation found in the Green River Formation. Not only is it exceptionally rare, but it is also distinguished by the incredible level of detail captured in the fossil. The intricate leaf veins are preserved with such clarity that they are almost indistinguishable from the original living plant. The frond has also retained its distinctive charcoal-like colour, adding to its beauty and historical significance. This fossil provides an invaluable glimpse into the plant life of a tropical world that no longer exists, a world where the earth's climate was much warmer and wetter than it is today. The preservation of this palm frond is a testament to the unique conditions of the Green River Formation, which has allowed it to survive in a near-perfect state for tens of millions of years. It is a rare and precious reminder of a time long past, when lush forests dominated much of North America and the world was very different from the one we know today.
■ After the sale this lot will remain at Parnham Park, Beaminster, DT8 3LZ where it will be available for collection
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AN AMMONITE AND SEA SNAIL FOSSIL PANEL
130cm high
Featured lot
Provisionally sold
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Lost
Declined
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Leading
Quantity
1
Max bid
GBP
Estimate
1,200 - 1,800 GBP
A WOOLLY RHINOCERUS (COELODONTA ANTIQUITATIS) SKULL
On a modern wooden plinth base and plaster replica horn
96cm high, 110cm long overall
The woolly rhinoceros (Coelodonta antiquitatis) is an extinct species that roamed northern Eurasia during the Pleistocene epoch. It was a formidable and well-adapted herbivore, comparable in size to the largest living rhinoceros species, the white rhinoceros. Its most distinguishing feature was its thick coat of long, dense hair, which enabled it to thrive in the frigid, harsh conditions of the mammoth steppe.
In addition to its impressive size, the woolly rhinoceros possessed a notable hump, extending from its shoulders, likely a physical adaptation to its cold environment. It primarily fed on herbaceous plants abundant in the steppe. Fossilized remains, including mummified carcasses preserved in permafrost, have provided significant insights into its life, while numerous bone fragments continue to be uncovered. Additionally, depictions of woolly rhinoceroses in cave paintings across Europe and Asia, along with archaeological evidence, suggest that this species may have been hunted by early humans.
One of the earliest scientific descriptions of an ancient rhinoceros species was made in 1769 by the naturalist Peter Simon Pallas, who documented his expeditions to Siberia. During his travels, Pallas discovered a skull and two horns preserved in the permafrost, which marked a pivotal moment in the study of prehistoric life and ancient species.
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1
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Estimate
1,200 - 1,800 GBP
AN AMMONITE AND SEA SNAIL FOSSIL PANEL
125cm high
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1
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Estimate
10,000 - 15,000 GBP
JAMES PERKINS STUDIO
THE MODEL
485 x 216cm (190¾ x 85 in.)
James' The Model is an extraordinary and thought-provoking piece that explores both the whimsical and the surreal. At its core, the sculpture presents the skeletal form of a giraffe, meticulously crafted to capture the elegance and grandeur of this magnificent creature. The giraffe's towering frame, with its long, slender legs and delicate bones, is a striking representation of fragility and grace.
However, what sets The Model apart is the artist's unique vision: the giraffe's skeletal structure is paired with a pair of high-heeled shoes in the unmistakable style of Christian Louboutin, complete with their signature red-lacquered soles. These heels, often associated with glamour and luxury, are juxtaposed against the raw, skeletal form of the giraffe, creating an unexpected yet compelling contrast.
This playful yet thought-provoking combination evokes James' long-standing observation that giraffes appear to be perpetually standing on their tiptoes. By incorporating the Louboutin heels, the artist brings this idea to life, presenting the giraffe in an exaggerated, almost human-like pose. The result is both humorous and poignant, highlighting themes of beauty, fragility, and the often absurd fusion of nature and luxury.
■ After the sale this lot will remain at Parnham Park, Beaminster, DT8 3LZ where it will be available for collection
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1,000 - 1,500 GBP
Y A SKELETON OF A CASSOWARY (CASUARIUS) BIRD
On a modern mahogany base
162cm high, the base 84cm long overall
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100,000 - 150,000 GBP
‡ XIPHACTINUS AUDAX (LATE CRETACEOUS)
SANTONIAN
SMOKY HILL CHALK
GROVE COUNTY
KANSAS
230cm high, 415cm wide, 155cm deep (including stand)
This impressive specimen of Xiphactinus audax , a large and predatory fish from the late Cretaceous period, provides an extraordinary glimpse into the ancient marine ecosystems that once dominated Earth's oceans. Known for its elongated body, large teeth, and fearsome appearance, Xiphactinus audax was one of the most formidable predators of its time. With its sleek, torpedo-shaped form and powerful jaws, it likely preyed on smaller fish and marine reptiles, making it a significant apex predator in its environment.
The fossil offered in this lot is particularly remarkable for its exceptional preservation, showcasing the well-defined details of the fish's skeletal structure. Xiphactinus audax is known for its large size, with some individuals growing over 16 feet long, and this specimen exemplifies the impressive scale and power of this extinct species. The preservation of the bones and other features provides invaluable insight into the anatomy, biology, and behavior of this Cretaceous predator.
This species lived approximately 100 to 70 million years ago during the late Cretaceous period, a time when the Earth's oceans were home to a diverse array of marine life. Fossils of Xiphactinus audax are highly sought after by paleontologists and collectors alike due to the rarity of well-preserved specimens. This lot represents a unique opportunity to acquire a significant fossil that not only adds to the understanding of prehistoric marine life but also holds immense aesthetic appeal for those with an interest in ancient species.
The Xiphactinus audax was a fast-swimming, aggressive fish, and its fossilized remains provide important clues about the dynamics of ancient marine ecosystems, including predator-prey relationships and the role of apex predators in shaping their environments. Given the rarity of such fossils, particularly in such well-preserved condition, this specimen is a highly coveted and valuable piece for any collection. Whether for display, further research, or as a centerpiece in a museum or private collection, this Xiphactinus audax fossil is an exceptional opportunity to acquire a rare and fascinating piece of the prehistoric world.
■ After the sale this lot will remain at Parnham Park, Beaminster, DT8 3LZ where it will be available for collection
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Y A GIANT CLAM SHELL (TRIDACNA GIGAS)
72cm wide
Together with three smaller giant clam shells
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2,000 - 3,000 GBP
Y A TAXIDERMY AFRICAN GIRAFFE HEAD AND NECK
240cm high
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AN AMMONITE (CEPHALOPOD) ENCRUSTED SANDSTONE SPECIMEN
60cm high and wide
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1,500 - 2,500 GBP
Y A TAXIDERMY ROYAL (TWELVE POINT) WHITE HART
Shoulder mounted
Approx 160cm high, 115cm wide
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1,500 - 2,500 GBP
Y A TAXIDERMY IMPERIAL (FOURTEEN POINT) WHITE HART
Shoulder mounted
Approx 165cm wide, 130cm high
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THREE SEAHORSES (HIPPOCAMPUS) Under glass domes 15cm high overall and smaller
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THREE AMMONITE (CEPHALOPODA) FOSSILS
Two on modern metal stands
The example on the stand 23cm high overall
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Y FIVE PILLOW STARFISH (CULCITA NOVAEGUINEAE)
24cm wide and smaller
Together with other starfish specimens
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TWO POLISHED AMMONITE (CEPHALOPODA) FOSSILS
On modern metal bases
26cm wide and similar overall
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Y TWO TAXIDERMY SWANS (CYGNINAE)
One white, one black
The black swan 87cm high
The white swan 75cm high
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THREE POLISHED AMMONITE (CEPHALOPODA) FOSSILS
One on modern metal base
18cm high and similar overall
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TWO AMONITITE (CEPHALOPODA) FOSSILS
On modern metal bases
25cm wide and similar overall
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