43 - African knobkerrie or rungu club, traditionally hand-carved from a single piece of dark-stained hardwood. The weapon features a long, slightly tapered shaft terminating in a heavy, offset spherical head. The head displays a prominent circular section of lighter-colored sapwood or heartwood, utilized by the carver to create a natural eye-like decorative pattern. The shaft flares at the grip end into a rounded pommel with a slight terminal point. The surface exhibits fine linear striations and a polished finish consistent with traditional smoothing techniques and handling. 16 3/4" L x 2 3/4" W x 3 1/2" D.

African knobkerrie or rungu club, traditionally hand-carved from a single piece of dark-stained hardwood. The weapon features a long, slightly tapered shaft terminating in a heavy, offset spherical head. The head displays a prominent circular section of lighter-colored sapwood or heartwood, utilized by the carver to create a natural eye-like decorative pattern. The shaft flares at the grip end into a rounded pommel with a slight terminal point. The surface exhibits fine linear striations and a polished finish consistent with traditional smoothing techniques and handling. 16 3/4" L x 2 3/4" W x 3 1/2" D. Brought home from a trip to Kenya. 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 club is in good ethnographic condition with wear consistent with age and use. A vertical hairline age crack is visible on the upper portion of the spherical head. The shaft and head show scattered light surface scratches, small nicks, and minor abrasions throughout. The dark finish shows light smoothing and minor loss at the high points of the head and the base of the pommel. 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.