55 - A ceremonial bamboo container from Papua New Guinea, likely utilized as a tobacco or lime storage vessel. The object features a long, slightly tapered cylindrical body characterized by a warm, natural orange-brown patina. The exterior is intricately decorated with incised geometric and curvilinear motifs infilled with dark pigment. One end of the hollow bamboo tube is open, while the opposite end features a narrower, stepped projection created by two concentric bamboo layers. A length of twisted natural fiber cord remains attached to the interior of the wider opening. 23" L x 1 7/8" diameter.

A ceremonial bamboo container from Papua New Guinea, likely utilized as a tobacco or lime storage vessel. The object features a long, slightly tapered cylindrical body characterized by a warm, natural orange-brown patina. The exterior is intricately decorated with incised geometric and curvilinear motifs infilled with dark pigment. One end of the hollow bamboo tube is open, while the opposite end features a narrower, stepped projection created by two concentric bamboo layers. A length of twisted natural fiber cord remains attached to the interior of the wider opening. 23" L x 1 7/8" diameter. 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 object displays signs of age and traditional use. Minor surface abrasions and scattered dark spots are visible across the patina. Small, irregular cracks are present at the rim of the wide opening and along the edge of the stepped projection. There is some fading and loss to the dark pigment within the incised channels, particularly on the raised portions of the bamboo. The natural fiber cord shows fraying. 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.