17 - Jacques-Nicolas Bellin (French, 1703-1772). Hand-colored copperplate engraving, Carte des Isles Lucayes, c. 1764. The nautical map depicts the Bahama Islands with detailed soundings and rhumb lines radiating from a compass rose, including portions of the Florida coastline and northern Cuba. The work is presented in a gilt wood frame with a beige mat. A cartouche in the upper right corner is inscribed CARTE DES ISLES LUCAYES Par M. B. Ing.r de la Marine. Sight: 9 1/2 x 12 in. Frame: 15 3/4 x 18 3/8 in.

Jacques-Nicolas Bellin (French, 1703-1772). Hand-colored copperplate engraving, Carte des Isles Lucayes, c. 1764. The nautical map depicts the Bahama Islands with detailed soundings and rhumb lines radiating from a compass rose, including portions of the Florida coastline and northern Cuba. The work is presented in a gilt wood frame with a beige mat. A cartouche in the upper right corner is inscribed CARTE DES ISLES LUCAYES Par M. B. Ing.r de la Marine. Sight: 9 1/2 x 12 in. Frame: 15 3/4 x 18 3/8 in. Peter bought these five maps together, as one collection, and hung them in the front hall of the Benchley home. He was riveted by how sailors navigated across the world hundreds of years ago with nothing but these charts, and the Caribbean and Bahamas waters they depict are the waters he dove for the rest of his life. 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 sheet shows a prominent vertical center fold as issued with minor oxidative browning along the crease. Light, even toning consistent with age is present throughout the paper. The frame remains in good condition with minor surface wear. The paper dust cover on the verso has several small punctures and tears. 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.