20th Apr, 2011 12:00

Maritime and Scientific Models, Instruments & Art (Princess)

 
  Lot 122
 

122

[M] A RECONSTRUCTED ELEPHANT BIRD EGG (AEPYORNIS...

A RECONSTRUCTED ELEPHANT BIRD EGG (AEPYORNIS MAXIMUS)
of composite reconstruction, comprising parts from two or more examples -- 14in. (35.5cm.) high

The elephant birds were giant rarities native to Madagascar. Thought to be extinct for about 1,000 years, it was the world's largest bird, believed to have been up to 3m tall and weighing close to half a ton. The egg volume is approximately 160 times greater than a chicken, their thickness proving durable to the climate, fragments are littered over desert areas of the island.

Sold for £1,612
Estimated at £500 - £800

(inc. buyer's premium of 24%)


 
A RECONSTRUCTED ELEPHANT BIRD EGG (AEPYORNIS MAXIMUS)
of composite reconstruction, comprising parts from two or more examples -- 14in. (35.5cm.) high

The elephant birds were giant rarities native to Madagascar. Thought to be extinct for about 1,000 years, it was the world's largest bird, believed to have been up to 3m tall and weighing close to half a ton. The egg volume is approximately 160 times greater than a chicken, their thickness proving durable to the climate, fragments are littered over desert areas of the island.
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