£595.00
A striking pair of hand-carved sculptural forms created from genuine black Orthoceras fossil limestone, beautifully polished to reveal millions of years of natural geological history.
Standing 36 cm high, these elegant contemporary sculptures showcase dramatic fossilised Orthoceras cephalopods, each preserved within richly contrasting black limestone dating over 400 million years. Individually carved into abstract organic forms, they combine natural history with modern sculptural design, making them exceptional decorative objects for both classic and contemporary interiors.
A striking pair of hand-carved sculptural forms created from genuine black Orthoceras fossil limestone, beautifully polished to reveal millions of years of natural geological history.
Standing 36 cm high, these elegant contemporary sculptures showcase dramatic fossilised Orthoceras cephalopods, each preserved within richly contrasting black limestone dating over 400 million years. Individually carved into abstract organic forms, they combine natural history with modern sculptural design, making them exceptional decorative objects for both classic and contemporary interiors.
Each sculpture is entirely unique, with no two fossil patterns ever repeating.
Orthoceras were ancient marine cephalopods that inhabited warm tropical seas during the Ordovician and Devonian periods, approximately 400–470 million years ago.
Their long, conical shells gradually fossilised within limestone over immense geological timescales, creating the remarkable natural patterns visible today.
Much of the finest Orthoceras limestone originates from Morocco, where carefully selected blocks are hand carved by skilled artisans into decorative sculptures that celebrate both natural beauty and geological history.
Today these sculptures are highly sought after by collectors, interior designers and natural history enthusiasts alike.
Each sculpture has been individually hand carved from a solid block of fossil-rich black limestone.
The flowing abstract forms have been carefully polished to reveal hundreds of fossil inclusions, with beautifully preserved Orthoceras shells appearing throughout each piece.
The highly polished surfaces contrast wonderfully against areas of natural fossil matrix, creating exceptional depth and movement.
Rather than disguising the geological origins of the stone, the carving enhances the fossils themselves, allowing every angle to reveal new detail.
These sculptures possess a timeless sculptural quality that works effortlessly within contemporary, minimalist and traditional interiors.
Whether displayed as a pair on a console table, bookshelf, desk or pedestal, they provide an elegant focal point while introducing a fascinating element of natural history.
Their monochromatic palette complements almost every interior style, from modern architectural spaces to classic country houses.
These sculptures work beautifully:
Orthoceras ("straight horn") were extinct marine cephalopods that lived in prehistoric oceans over 400 million years ago. Their fossilised shells are among the oldest natural materials regularly used within decorative art and interior design, making each sculpture both a work of art and a remarkable piece of Earth's geological history.
Origin: Morocco
Date: 400 million years ago
Material:
"We are continually drawn to objects where nature becomes art, and these sculptures achieve exactly that. The dramatic black limestone is filled with beautifully preserved Orthoceras fossils that have survived for hundreds of millions of years, while the elegant carving transforms geological history into striking contemporary sculpture. Displayed together they create an impressive architectural statement and appeal equally to collectors of natural history and lovers of refined interior design."
Both sculptures remain in excellent condition.
There are no cracks, repairs or structural issues. Minor natural inclusions and small geological imperfections are entirely inherent to the fossil stone and should be regarded as part of their authenticity.
The polished surfaces remain bright and well preserved, displaying the fossils beautifully from every angle.
Height: 36 cm / 14.17 inches
Width: 6 cm / 2.36 inches
Depth: 10 cm / 3.94 inches
Weight (Pair): 3.5 kg / 7.72 lbs
Every item offered by Shackleton Fox is carefully inspected, prepared, and where necessary conserved within our workshop prior to sale.
As heritage craftsmen and antique specialists, we believe in preserving the authenticity and integrity of each piece. Original finishes, patina, wear, and signs of age are retained wherever possible, as these elements contribute to both character and historical significance.
When restoration, rewiring, repairs, or conservation work is required, it is undertaken sympathetically using traditional techniques and materials appropriate to the period of the piece. Our philosophy is one of careful stewardship rather than unnecessary restoration, ensuring antiques remain both functional and historically respectful.
The result is a collection of pieces that have been thoughtfully prepared, allowing future owners to enjoy them with confidence while preserving their unique story and character.
