- 2 Frassetto Way - Lincoln Park, NJ 07035
The Peter Benchley Collection: Jaws, A Life of Writing, A Legacy of Ocean Conservation.
Lot 50:
Description
Papua New Guinea hand-carved wooden model of an outrigger canoe, representative of Melanesian maritime craft. The piece features a slender dugout hull with a hollowed interior and a central transverse thwart containing a circular perforation for a mast. The exterior hull sides are decorated with incised horizontal wavy bands and a row of small semi-circular notches along the lower edge. A single outrigger float is attached to the hull via two wooden cross-beams secured with red-orange cordage lashings and vertical Y-shaped stanchions. The wood exhibits a medium-brown tone with a matte finish and visible grain throughout. 2 1/2" H x 11 3/8" L x 6 1/2" W.
More from the same 1987 Papua New Guinea expedition, including the painted bark tapa, the carved headrest, and in Lot 54 the ceremonial phallic gourds worn by Highlands men, which the Benchleys brought home because they were fascinating, exotic, and the source of wonderful conversation pieces.
From the personal collection of Peter Benchley (American, 1940–2006), acclaimed author of Jaws, accomplished diver, and prominent advocate for ocean and shark conservation.
Proceeds from the Peter Benchley Collection will benefit five ocean conservation organizations: Peter Benchley Ocean Awards, WildAid, Beneath the Waves, Blue Frontier and Environmental Defense Fund.
Condition report:
The model is missing its original mast and sail components. The red-orange cordage lashings show light fraying. The primary structure, including the hull, outrigger, and stanchions, remains intact. Minor surface wear and handling marks are present on the wood.
Share this lot:
