Plant fossil Maffeia, Monta Bolca

This amazing plant fossil, Maffeia ceratophylloides, dates from the middle Eocene (Ypresian) and is 
around 50 million years old.
It was found in the world-famous limestone strata (Alveolina Dainelli) of Monte Bolca, which is 
located near Verona, Italy.

Monte Bolca is not far from the village of Bolca and is also called "Pescaria" - fish bowl - 
because of the numerous fossil fish. In a broader sense, the nearby sites are also grouped under 
the name Monte Bolca.

The area around Monte Bolca was raised twice from the sea floor when the Alps formed, once between 
30 and 50 million years ago and again around 24 million years ago. The site consists of a 19 meter 
thick layer of fossil-rich limestone. There are particularly well-preserved fossils in individual 
horizons. Here not only the internal organs have been preserved, sometimes even the color of the 
skin can be seen.

Fossils from this site are rare, they have hardly come onto the market for many years. The site is 
under strict protection. The piece offered here comes from the private collection of the Cerato 
family. This family owns the local quarries.

Only a few collectors know that in certain layers there are also plant fossils to be found in 
addition to the famous fishes. These are very rare to find but have been preserved in 
excellent quality. Look at the pictures and judge for yourself. The plant is complete and in 
excellent condition.

The fossil is nicely centered on the original stone. This measures about 16.5 x 11 x 1 cm. 
It's an old family collector's item, we got it in a nice wooden frame with a hanger - that's 
how it used to be done. If you wish, you can then hang the piece directly on a wall. The frame 
measures approximately 18.5 x 13.5 x 2 cm.

Don't miss this rare opportunity!

SOLD