- 2 Frassetto Way - Lincoln Park, NJ 07035
Peter Benchley Collection
Lot 276:
Description
Late 19th or early 20th century wood and metal two-headed spiked flail. The weapon is constructed with a dark-stained wooden handle featuring a series of deeply turned rings at the base to serve as a grip, followed by a smooth shaft that transitions into a carved decorative band with repeating recessed oval patterns. The top of the shaft is encased in a cast metal sleeve secured by six large, dome-headed metal studs arranged in pairs along its length. Two lengths of chain composed of interlocking iron links are fixed to the capped top of the sleeve, each terminating in a spherical cast metal head fitted with multiple integral pyramidal spikes. 23 1/2" L. Heads 3 1/4" diameter.
From the personal collection of Peter Benchley (American, 1940–2006), acclaimed author of Jaws, accomplished diver, and prominent advocate for ocean and shark conservation.
Condition report:
The metal components exhibit significant surface oxidation and heavy rust throughout the sleeve, chains, and spiked heads. The dark stain on the wooden handle shows wear, including scuffs and loss of finish along the raised edges of the turned rings and the central decorative band, revealing the lighter wood beneath.
Share this lot:
