Special *Cypraea Tigris* with Striking Cream Base and...

Collectible specimen with a distinctive chromatic pattern — This splendid specimen of *Cypraea Tigris*, commonly known as Tiger Cowrie, represents a valuable addition to any natural history collection. The shell, from the crystal-clear waters of Madagascar, stands out for its smooth and glossy surface, a peculiarity of Cypraeidae shells, naturally polished by the sea waves and by the activity of the polyps that cover it in life. The color pattern of this *Cypraea Tigris* is particularly captivating. The light cream base forms a vivid contrast with dark, almost black, rounded spots of varying size, which are distributed with fascinating regularity over the entire dorsal surface. This pattern, reminiscent of a tiger's coat, is even more interestingly highlighted by warmer shades of coffee brown that delineate some of the spots and the dorsal line, lending depth and dynamism to the whole. The natural luster of the shell further enhances the richness of the colors and the sharpness of the design. Observing the shell from the ventral side, the elongated and narrow aperture is revealed, finely dentellated on the inner margins, a distinctive feature that bears witness to its excellent preservation. These denticles, often referred to as 'calli', play a functional role for the mollusk, aiding grip and protection, and add a tactile and visual element of interest for the observer. The internal coloration of the aperture is a pure and brilliant white, highlighting the sturdy and harmonious structure of the specimen. Shells of the genus *Cypraea*, first described by Carl Linnaeus in 1758, have always been among the most appreciated and sought after by collectors worldwide, not only for their intrinsic beauty but also for the stories they tell of vast oceans. This specimen of *Cypraea Tigris* is not merely a magnificent decorative object, but a tangible fragment of the marine world, a witness to biodiversity and the perfection of natural forms. Its impeccable condition and aesthetics make it ideal to enrich a Wunderkammer, a display case of natural curiosities, or to infuse a touch of exotic elegance into any environment.

Stima:€160

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