Archaeopteryx lithographica
Part of the EVOLUTION & ORIGINS Exhibit
Late Jurassic Period, approx. 150-148 million years ago
1:1 Scale Skull Replica
SPECIMEN PROFILE
Archaeopteryx lithographica lived in the island archipelagos of Late Jurassic Europe, where warm coastal lagoons and limestone forests created a fragmented landscape of isolated ecosystems. It is widely regarded as one of the most important transitional organisms in vertebrate evolution, bridging the anatomical gap between non-avian dinosaurs and modern birds.
Its skeleton combined classic theropod features—such as teeth, a long bony tail, and clawed fingers—with clear avian adaptations, including feathered wings capable of powered or assisted gliding. The feathers likely served multiple functions, including insulation, display, and aerodynamic lift. While not a strong flyer by modern standards, Archaeopteryx represents an early experiment in aerial locomotion, capable of short bursts of flight or gliding between trees and across gaps in its island habitat.
COLLECTOR & CURATOR NOTE
A pivotal Late Jurassic transitional species—its blend of feathered wings and reptilian anatomy marks one of the most significant evolutionary links between non-avian dinosaurs and modern birds.
CONSTRUCTION & DISPLAY
Scale
1:1, approx. 1.9 in or 5 cm
Fossil Finishes
Aged Bone: A weathered bone-white aesthetic, evoking exposed skeletal remains and museum restorations.
Canyon: Warm earth tones and terracotta hues, inspired by fossil beds such as Picketwire and Mill Canyon.
Fossilized: Deep browns and near-black coloration, replicating the mineral-rich preservation seen in authentic fossil specimens.
Specimen Format
Unmounted study specimen: A standalone skull, ideal for shelves, cases, or custom display setups.
Desktop-mounted display specimen: Presented on a handmade desktop stand, crafted from wood with brass furnishings and a custom specimen placard — designed to elevate the specimen as a true exhibit piece.
Medium
Hand-painted resin