Sclerocephalus and Walchia Association

THIS IS SPECIMEN HAS SOLD

This extraordinary, museum quality piece includes a large fossil amphibian (Sclerocephalus haeuseri) alongside a fine example of the earliest conifer species (Walchia lebachia germanica).

It’s extremely rare to have a plant and amphibian fossil preserved together. Moreover, the detailed preservation of the amphibian's bones and soft tissue is absolutely remarkable.

Not only is this specimen outstanding from a scientific perspective, it is also beautiful. The amphibian and plant are perfectly balanced on the shale slab and fossilized in lifelike positions!

These salamander-like amphibians inhabited swamps in present-day southwest Germany, nearly 300 million years ago, before the appearance of the dinosaurs.

This specimen comes from an old collection and is an investment fossil. The quarry near Pfalz, Germany where this piece was collected has been closed for more than 20 years. A piece this exceptional is positioned to retain value, or appreciate.

Although Sclerocephalus resembles modern day salamanders, it is not closely related. In fact, it is classified in a separate order of amphibians, the Temnospondyli.

Age: Lower Permian - 295 million years.

Location: Odenheim, Rheinland-Pflaz, Germany.

Certificate of authenticity included.

Only minor restoration.

Stand Included.

Picture with model taken in typical indoor lighting. Other photos under bright, natural light setting.

Matrix measures 33.25 inches (h) x 29.5" (w) x 1" (d) / 84.5 x 75 x 2.5 cm.

The amphibian measures 26.5 inches / 67.3 cm from head to tail. If straightened it would be 28.5 inches / 72.4 cm. Width at the head is 5.25 inches / 13.3 cm and at the legs is 9 inches / 22.8 cm.

The conifer is 22.5 inches / 57 cm.

Includes a copy of "Permian: Birth of a New World" - a book in which this specimen is featured as an excellent example of a confier and Sclerocephalus.

We ship worldwide. Please inquire for a shipping quote. Will be securely packed in a wooden crate free of charge.