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Fossilised Lightning
Specimen
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Sculptural
Fossilised Lightning
Specimen
$8,000
£6,097.74
€7,033.10
CA$11,362.39
A$12,210.09
CHF 6,551.42
MX$143,827.34
NOK 82,376.83
SEK 75,250.70
DKK 52,562.64
About the Item
This remarkable natural sculpture was formed in one ten thousandth of a second, the moment that lightning struck desert sands. Known as ‘fulgurite’, it is a rare example of lechatelierite - a natural glass created when sand is melted by extreme heat. Colloquially known as fossilised lightning, ‘fulgurites’ contain a hollow internal glass tube, with a rough exterior which flares into spiky ridges and undulating channels. This unique form reflects the path of the lightning bolt as it struck the ground. Sometimes grains of sand are also preserved, as in the case of the present piece. Owing to their rarity and the difficulty of excavation, fulgurites are usually only small, measuring just a few centimetres in length. This example at 23 cm, impressively captures a split-second in time, and the instantaneous transformation of sand to glass. With a sleek, custom base, mounted as if suspended in the moment of creation, it is a timeless and awe-inspiring reminder of the forces of nature.
Provenance
Recovered from the Sahara Desert, Algeria
Please note that this item is a work of art and is thus exempt from US reciprocal tariffs.
ArtAncient are dealers in rare wonders from the formation of the Solar System to late antiquity, discovering, studying and placing objects in extraordinary collections. Please contact us for more details on this piece.
- Dimensions:Height: 9.06 in (23 cm)Width: 1.78 in (4.5 cm)Depth: 1.19 in (3 cm)
- Style:Minimalist (In the Style Of)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:Precise date unknown
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use.
- Seller Location:London, GB
- Reference Number:Seller: 429581stDibs: LU1052248362412
About the Seller
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Associations
LAPADA - The Association of Arts
Antiques DealersInternational Confederation of Art and Antique Dealers
AssociationsThe British Antique Dealers
Association
- ShippingRetrieving quote...Shipping from: London, United Kingdom
- Return Policy
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