40 - Pitcairn Island wood carving depicting a stylized shark. The sculpture is fashioned from a single piece of bi-colored Pacific kou or milo wood, characterized by a high-contrast grain transitioning from dark brown heartwood to light tan sapwood. The fluid, aerodynamic form features real shark teeth set into an open jaw and a circular wood inlay representing the eye. The dorsal and pectoral fins exhibit the natural sapwood along the edges. The verso is fitted with a brass screw eye for wall mounting and a narrow longitudinal recessed channel. Inscribed in ink on the verso Mary Pavicich, Pitcairn Island. 23 3/4" L x 7" W x 3 7/8" D.

Pitcairn Island wood carving depicting a stylized shark. The sculpture is fashioned from a single piece of bi-colored Pacific kou or milo wood, characterized by a high-contrast grain transitioning from dark brown heartwood to light tan sapwood. The fluid, aerodynamic form features real shark teeth set into an open jaw and a circular wood inlay representing the eye. The dorsal and pectoral fins exhibit the natural sapwood along the edges. The verso is fitted with a brass screw eye for wall mounting and a narrow longitudinal recessed channel. Inscribed in ink on the verso Mary Pavicich, Pitcairn Island. 23 3/4" L x 7" W x 3 7/8" D. A gift to Peter, carved on Pitcairn Island by descendants of the Bounty mutineers. He kept it on the bookcase in his office. 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 wooden surface is in generally good condition with minor surface scuffs and a small nick to the tip of the snout. The real shark teeth inlays are largely intact, though one tooth on the upper jaw is chipped. No other visible losses or repairs are present. 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.