1 - Nathaniel Benchley (American, 1915-1981). Oil on canvas, autumnal landscape, 1957. Signed and dated in the lower right corner "N Benchley '57". Sight: 15 1/2 x 19 1/4 in. Frame: 20 7/8 x 24 3/4 x 1 in.

Nathaniel Benchley (American, 1915-1981). Oil on canvas, autumnal landscape, 1957. Signed and dated in the lower right corner "N Benchley '57". Sight: 15 1/2 x 19 1/4 in. Frame: 20 7/8 x 24 3/4 x 1 in. Nathaniel Benchley was Peter's father, a novelist and a gifted painter whose canvases filled the walls of the Benchley's family's house on Nantucket. This view of the moors of Nantucket-officially known as the Middle Moors-is the largest expanse of undeveloped, protected open space in the center of Nantucket Island, Massachusetts. This painting was one of Peter's favorites, and it hung in his Princeton home for more than thirty years. 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: The painted surface is stable with no visible losses or flaking. The wooden frame and liner exhibit minor edge wear. The brown paper dust cover on the verso is heavily torn and deteriorating. NOTICE TO BIDDERS: The absence of a condition report does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition. Photos are considered part of the condition report. Complete condition information is available by request, please request no later than 24 hours prior to the auction. All lots are offered and sold "as is", and Willow Auctions will not provide refunds based on condition. Timepiece movements, lighting and electrics have not been tested, and art has not been examined out of the frame unless otherwise stated.