Platyscutellum massai
Trilobites Order Corynexochida, Family Styginidae
Geological Time: Middle Devonian
Size (25.4 mm = 1 inch): Trilobite is 45 mm long (curve measure), 30 mm across. Matrix: 70 mm by 75 mm
Fossil Site: Jebel Ofaten, Morocco
Code: 13071
Price: $1795.00
 Description:
A member of the Order Corynexochida, Family Styginidae from the
Middle Devonian deposits of Foum Ziguid, Morocco, this is a member
of the genus Platyscutellum. The broad ridges in the pygidium and
lack of postulation distinguishes it from both Scutellum and Metascutellum.
With the advent of a reliable source of electricity in Morocco,
the quality of preparation has improved dramatically over the past
few years. This one took a great deal of effort to prepare all
the pleural spines free of matrix. While I used to refer to trilobites
prepared in a mode similar to this as flying, I feel a new term
is warranted by the preparation now coming into vogue. This specimen
is truly stunning when viewed from any aspect, and is destined
to become the cornerstone of any collection, public or private.
Note the presence of axial spines and an intact hypostome, bioth
unsual features. Were it not for the fact that the very tip of
one genal spine is missing this one would have commanded an even
higher price. |
