- 2 Frassetto Way - Lincoln Park, NJ 07035
The Peter Benchley Collection: Jaws, A Life of Writing, A Legacy of Stories
Lot 58:
Description
A pair of ethnographic artifacts comprising a carved stone sculpture and a ceramic vessel. The first object is a Polynesian carved volcanic stone figure originating from the Marquesas Islands, depicting a tiki with characteristic goggle-shaped eyes, a wide mouth, and stylized hands resting on the abdomen. The figure is carved in the round with a flat base. The underside of the sculpture bears an incised inscription reading TAUE ATUONA. The second item is a small terracotta vessel of globular form featuring a flared pedestal base and concentric incised lines encircling the shoulder. An old paper label is adhered to the body with handwritten French text reading "Trouvé à Sevy, sur l’emplacement de la fontaine." Stone: 2 3/8" H x 3 1/4" W x 4" D. Ceramic: 3" H x 2 3/8" 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 stone sculpture shows minor surface abrasions and small chips to the edges of the base and facial features. The ceramic vessel exhibits significant losses and irregular chips to the rim, with further chipping and wear to the pedestal base. The adhesive paper label is toned and shows minor staining but remains legible.
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