Ray Fish Rhinobatos Hakelensis & Sawfish Libanopritis Hiram 1.3M Slab [RARE]

Ray Fish Rhinobatos Hakelensis & Sawfish Libanopritis Hiram 1.3M Slab [RARE]An important fossil assemblage comprising a Ray fish (Rhinobatos hakelensis) and a Sawfish (Libanopristis hiram), preserved together on a single original limestone plate from the celebrated Haqel Fossil Lagersttte of Lebanon. The fossil bearing limestones of Haqel are internationally recognised for their exceptional state of preservation and provide one of the most significant records of marine life from the ancient Tethys Ocean during the Late

An important fossil assemblage comprising a Ray fish (Rhinobatos hakelensis) and a Sawfish (Libanopristis hiram), preserved together on a single original limestone plate from the celebrated Haqel Fossil Lagerstätte of Lebanon.

The fossil-bearing limestones of Haqel are internationally recognised for their exceptional state of preservation and provide one of the most significant records of marine life from the ancient Tethys Ocean during the Late Cretaceous. Formed within restricted hypersaline lagoon environments, these fine-grained sub-lithographic limestones facilitated the preservation of delicate anatomical structures that are rarely retained within the fossil record.

Both specimens remain articulated and substantially complete, displaying a high degree of anatomical definition throughout. The association of two cartilaginous fish taxa on a single undivided plate is an uncommon occurrence within the Haqel assemblage and reflects the remarkable preservational conditions for which the locality is renowned.

Of equal significance is the integrity of the host matrix. Comparable material is frequently encountered as partial remains, disarticulated specimens, or on heavily fractured plates. Here, the fossils are preserved upon a substantial original limestone slab measuring approximately 1.3 meters in length, presenting an unusually balanced composition of scientific and aesthetic merit.

The specimen represents a noteworthy example from one of the most important palaeontological localities of the Eastern Mediterranean and offers a rare insight into a marine ecosystem that flourished approximately 93 million years ago.

MOUNTING

The specimen is supplied with a custom aluminium mounting system. One bracket is pre-installed on the reverse of the limestone plate, with the corresponding wall bracket and fixings provided. The interlocking system ensures a secure, discreet installation, allowing the specimen to sit flush against the wall while maintaining a refined architectural presentation.

STAT

*Tailored aluminium back wall-mount included
Upper: Genus: Ray Fish [Rhinobatos Hakelensis]
Lower: Genus: Sawfish [Libanopritis hiram]
Origin: Sub-lithographic limestone-Haqel, Lebanon
Age: Cretaceous, 99 to 93 million years

Overall plate: H: 102 x W: 126 x D: 5 cm / KG: 55
Overall depth with aluminium hanging system: 5 cm
Ray Fish: L: 39 cm / Sawfish: L: 39 cm