58 - A pair of ethnographic artifacts comprising a carved stone sculpture and a ceramic vessel. The first object is a Polynesian carved volcanic stone figure originating from the Marquesas Islands, depicting a tiki with characteristic goggle-shaped eyes, a wide mouth, and stylized hands resting on the abdomen. The figure is carved in the round with a flat base. The underside of the sculpture bears an incised inscription reading TAUE ATUONA. The second item is a small terracotta vessel of globular form featuring a flared pedestal base and concentric incised lines encircling the shoulder. An old paper label is adhered to the body with handwritten French text reading "Trouve à Sevy, sur l'emplacement de la fontaine." Stone: 2 3/8" H x 3 1/4" W x 4" D. Ceramic: 3" H x 2 3/8" diameter.

A pair of ethnographic artifacts comprising a carved stone sculpture and a ceramic vessel. The first object is a Polynesian carved volcanic stone figure originating from the Marquesas Islands, depicting a tiki with characteristic goggle-shaped eyes, a wide mouth, and stylized hands resting on the abdomen. The figure is carved in the round with a flat base. The underside of the sculpture bears an incised inscription reading TAUE ATUONA. The second item is a small terracotta vessel of globular form featuring a flared pedestal base and concentric incised lines encircling the shoulder. An old paper label is adhered to the body with handwritten French text reading "Trouve à Sevy, sur l'emplacement de la fontaine." Stone: 2 3/8" H x 3 1/4" W x 4" D. Ceramic: 3" H x 2 3/8" diameter. Pieces Peter bought over the years at auctions and antique shops because they intrigued him. 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 stone sculpture shows minor surface abrasions and small chips to the edges of the base and facial features. The ceramic vessel exhibits significant losses and irregular chips to the rim, with further chipping and wear to the pedestal base. The adhesive paper label is toned and shows minor staining but remains legible. 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.