Central Asia, late Miocene to Early Pleistocene, ca. 23 million to 800,000 years ago. A fossilized skull from a prehistoric 3-toed horse known as Hipparion- although a primitive species, the skull's morphology is extremely similar to modern-day equines. This complete skull is well preserved with the incisor teeth and molars on display, evolved from crushing fruit to grazing on tough grasses. Although 3-toed, Hipparion's central hoof-like digit primarily supported their weight, the 2 other toes probably did not touch the ground but may have served as extra support on uneven terrain. Hipparion are considered a side branch in the evolution of modern-day horses, though they were outcompeted by more advanced horse species during the Pleistocene and other herbivories and have no directly related descendants today. Size: 18" L x 7" W x 8" H (45.7 cm x 17.8 cm x 20.3 cm) Provenance: private New Jersey, USA collection; ex-Eurasian collection, acquired 1970s All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance), we will no longer ship most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia or Germany, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm.Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping. #172120