Overview
This is a classic 'nature under glass' specimen, featuring a real scorpion suspended in a clear synthetic resin block.
Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
This is a classic 'nature under glass' specimen, featuring a real scorpion suspended in a clear synthetic resin block.
Story
Travelers crossing the Mojave or Sonoran deserts in the mid-to-late 20th century often brought home these 'frozen' predators as tokens of their adventures in the American West.
Maker / Origin
While often produced by souvenir companies or biological supply houses like Ward's Science, these items were also popular DIY kits for hobbyists during the resin-casting craze of the 1960s and 70s.
Condition & Value
The resin appears relatively clear with some minor surface scratching consistent with age and use as a paperweight. There is a small dark inclusion or debris near the bottom left, which is a common artifact of the pouring process.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Regional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375