Eastern Africa, Madagascar, early to mid-Triassic period, ca. 252 to 220 million years ago. A massive and gorgeous slab of fossilized or petrified tree trunk, sliced crossways and highly polished on both planar faces to showcase the gorgeous, mottled surface, highlighted by orange and russet inclusions on a creamy white-beige surface that clearly showcases the preserved ring structures from the original organic tree matter. This is a large and stunning piece to display or use as a tabletop with the addition of legs or a base. This specimen is possibly a fossilized species of Araucaria softwood trees, that was buried under sediment when it died - the lack of oxygen or anaerobic environment was perfect for stopping the normal process of decay. Eventually water flowed through the wood, depositing minerals into its cells that slowly form stone as the cells decay, creating the astounding colors we see here! Size: 27" Diameter x 1.3" W (68.6 cm x 3.3 cm)

Provenance: private Berthoud, Colorado, USA collection

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance), we will no longer ship most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia or Germany, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm.

Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.

#168932

Professionally prepared and polished. Natural abrasions and cavities and fissures on both polished faces. Chips and abrasions to the exterior bark surface. Large size and great coloration on both polished faces.