The Peter Benchley Collection: Jaws, A Life of Writing, A Legacy of Stories
Lot 30:
Description
Group of five British satirical hand-colored etchings on wove paper by noted caricaturists of the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The group includes James Gillray (British, 1756-1815), Stealing off;—or—prudent Secesion, 1798, and Visiting the Sick, 1806. Also included are Thomas Rowlandson (British, 1756-1827), Bloody Boney the Carcass Butcher Left of Trade and Retiring to Scarecrow Island, 1814; Charles Williams (British, active 1797-1830), Plump to the Devil We Boldly Kick’d Both Nap and His Partner Joe, 1813; and a fifth print titled A Friendly Visit, 1814. The works are published by prominent London houses including H. Humphrey, S.W. Fores, and Thomas Tegg. Several sheets feature J. Whatman Turkey Mill watermarks. The prints are loosely housed in modern white mats with pencil and ink annotations. Sight: 10″ x 14 1/4″. Largest Sheet: 13 1/2″ x 17″.
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 collection shows signs of significant age and handling. All sheets exhibit general toning and browning consistent with age. There is scattered foxing across several prints and margins. Visible adhesive residue and tape staining are present on the margins of the sheets and the associated mats. Small pinholes are visible in the corners of several prints. The paper edges show minor wear and irregular trimming. The modern mats are loose and show some light surface soiling.
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