Western Europe, Germany, Eichstatt, Solnhofen (Altmuhltal) Formation, Jurassic Period, ca. 154 to 144 million years ago. This shrimply amazing prawn fossil, Antrimpos genus, preserved on a unbroken slab of limestone. The carapace on the tail is well-mineralized, fragmented on the thorax, and the original fossil impressions for the legs and antennae are presented but were highlighted with pigment for better contrast of these natural fossil impressions. Unlike its counterparts, typically measuring around 2 inches in length, this magnificent shrimp exceeds expectations, stretching a remarkable eight inches from tail tip to head when measured along the curved body! A captivating addition to any collection, this specimen invites you to explore the depths of our planet's history and marvel at the wonders of evolution. This huge prehistoric shrimp boasts rare naturally preserved detail that further elevates its allure and significance! Size of stone matrix: 18" L x 18" W (45.7 cm x 45.7 cm); fossil along curve: 8" L (20.3 cm)

Famous for producing an astonishing diversity of rare and most intricately preserved fossils found anywhere in the world, the Solnhofen Lithographic Limestone Formation of southern Germany is legendary. Fine quality Solnhofen fossils are now much rarer than in past years since many quarries are now closed to commercial operations and the use of modern machinery often destroys many fossils. Please note that while crustacean fossils on lithographic limestone from Germany are often artificially enhanced in some way. If you examine and compare the details of this specimen with substantially lower-priced offers of some other dealers, you will easily see the difference especially if they post high-resolution images. This often occurs by painting artificial fine detail of appendages and antennae, but many are complete forgeries with no actual fossil present.

Please note that this piece is a dropship item, meaning that it will be shipping from the consignor's location. All information regarding condition, size, stone identification, and metal content have been provided by the consignor.

Provenance: private Diamond Springs, California, USA collection

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#184110

No repairs. Legs and antennas have been lightly highlighted, but impressions are original. Rest of the body is intact without restoration.