Palaeoperca proxima - Messel pit

This bifinned perch fish, Palaeoperca proxima, comes from the Eocene period of the Messel Pit in Germany. 
This fossil is approximately 47 million years old.

Messel fossils are highly sought-after collector's items. The site has been inaccessible for many 
years.
This piece comes from an old collection and was discovered in the 1970s.

As is common with Messel fossils, this exhibit was prepared using the so-called resin transfer method. 
This is the only way to permanently preserve such fossils.

The Messel Pit is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and no new finds have come onto the market for decades.

The fish is completely preserved, measuring approximately 18 cm. The slab is unbroken and measures 
approximately 25 x 12 x 0.5 cm. 
A hanger is attached to the back.

Perch were rarely found in the pit, and Palaeoperca in particular is rarely offered for sale. 
This species is among the rarest fishes in the Messel Pit.

A superbly preserved and rarely offered exhibit!

SOLD