**Originally Listed At $1200**

North America, Western United States, likely Wyoming, White River Formation, late Eocene to early Miocene period, ca. 46 to 16 million years ago. A fossilized skull from an oreodont (Merycoidodon), a prehistoric mammal that roamed across North America. This skull is beautifully preserved with white plaster on the interior cavities and a large stone matrix that acts as a support base. The visible orbit (ocular cavity) is mostly intact as is the zygomatic arch. The upper and lower jaws are slightly parted to reveal the rows of teeth, from which the oreodont name is derived. The molar teeth are an interesting high crown shape - pointy and triangular, and their name translates to "mountain tooth." The front canines are sharp like a predator; however, these mammals were herbivores and had traits that often were described as sheep, rhino, or pig like- although they may be more closely related to camelids. There are many different species that fall under the oreodont family, and this skull comes from a larger member of this extinct mammal. Size: 14" L x 8" W x 10" H (35.6 cm x 20.3 cm x 25.4 cm)

Provenance: private Lumberton, Texas, USA collection, acquired before 2010

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.

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#169314

Professionally prepared and restored with visible break lines, fissures, and infill. Approximately 70% original material. Half of lower mandible is new material and care has been taken to preserve original structure but may deviate slightly from actual shape. Chips throughout and losses to temporal area and vomer (nasal bone). Some teeth are reattached, including the upper canines. Half of skull is embedded in a stone matrix as shown, which creates a natural base.