- 3059
A MASSIVE GIRAFFE SKULL, GIRAFFA CAMELOPARDALIS SOUTH AFRICA |
Estimate
45,000 - 55,000 HKD
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Description
- giraffa camelopardalis
- w. 69 cm, 27 1/8 in.
the huge male skull well-modelled with a pair of ossicones, with teeth largely preserved
Condition
There are expected minor losses to the delicate nasal bones, but it is otherwise in overall good condition for its type. Apart from the teeth, which have been reattached to the skull, there is no restoration.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."
Catalogue Note
Giraffes rank as the tallest terrestrial animal in the world. Native to the woodlands and savannas in central and southern Africa, these lofty, long-necked herbivores are known for their unique physique and enigmatic patterned coat.
Well-built with a pair of ossicones of relatively large size, the current skull probably belonged to a male giraffe. These prominent rod-like structures are formed from ossified cartilages, and may play a role in male combats and body thermoregulation. As giraffes mature, calcium deposits grow on their cranium and develop into further horn-like structures protruding from their foreheads (and sometimes rear of their skull), as seen on the present piece. The natural erosion on the surface of the skull suggested that it was probably a bush find.
Well-built with a pair of ossicones of relatively large size, the current skull probably belonged to a male giraffe. These prominent rod-like structures are formed from ossified cartilages, and may play a role in male combats and body thermoregulation. As giraffes mature, calcium deposits grow on their cranium and develop into further horn-like structures protruding from their foreheads (and sometimes rear of their skull), as seen on the present piece. The natural erosion on the surface of the skull suggested that it was probably a bush find.