50 - 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.

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: 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. 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.