- 2 Frassetto Way - Lincoln Park, NJ 07035
Peter Benchley Collection - Jaws - A Life of Writing, A Legacy of Stories
Lot 277:
Description
Wrought iron and human bone skull gibbet, purchased by Peter Benchley and Teddy Tucker in London. The cage structure is composed of four hand-wrought vertical iron bands with irregular hammered edges, joined at a circular top plate and secured to a heavy flat-iron base featuring four integral downward-pointing legs. A large curved iron suspension hook is attached to the crown and secured with a traditional cotter pin. The internal skull exhibits a deep yellow-brown patina with visible sutures and partial dentition, while the mandible is detached and rests at the base of the ironwork. Historical associations identify the specimen as the remains of John Adams, executed at London’s Execution Dock in 1715. 13" H x 7 1/2" W x 8" D.
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 iron cage exhibits heavy oxidation and deep surface pitting throughout. The ironwork is structurally sound but displays the irregularities of hand-forged construction. The human skull shows a deep patina with minor superficial scratches to the right parietal bone. The mandible is detached.
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