- 78
A DIPLOCYNODON FOSSIL
Estimate
20,000 - 30,000 USD
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Description
- GRACANICA, BOSNIA HERZEGOVINA
Diplocynodon sp., (fossil plaque: 164 x 45 cm. Fossil size: 146 cm. 177 x 179 cm in frame). Langhien, Miocene (16-14 million years ago). A very fine specimen, framed to be mounted as a mural.
Condition
To request a condition report for this lot, please email science@sothebys.com
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE 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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.
Catalogue Note
The Dyplocynodon, which was similar in size to the modern day Caiman, is one of the best-preserved Crocodile genera, and its name, meaning "Double Dog Tooth" references its two large fang-like teeth, a distinguishing feature of the genus. Just as they did millions of years ago, all species of Crocodiles (Crocodylinae) inhabit fresh water, and live most of their lives submerged in stagnant waters, where they can stay submurged for up to 50 minutes at a time as they prepare to ambush their prey. Their movements in the water are incredibly agile, though this agility is almost completely lost when on land. This fossil is a testament to the tropical environment of Eastern Europe during the Miocene, and is reminiscent of the highly coveted crocodile fossils from the Green River Formation.