77 - Isabella I of Castile (Spanish, 1451-1504). One-page manuscript document on paper, royal order regarding diplomatic gifts, 1501. The document is signed with the royal sign-manual La Reyna at the top center. It is countersigned Por mandado de la Reyna by royal secretary Miguel perez dalmazan. Dated at the conclusion of the first paragraph. The text outlines an order for the Queen's chamberlain Sancho de Paredes to deliver silver-gilt cups to French ambassadors. The lower portion includes notarial attestations signed by Sancho de Paredes and Diego de Marañon. A 19th-century engraving titled ISABELLA OF CASTILE accompanies the document, noting the source as the Royal Palace at Madrid. A small paper label on the lower right of the mat is inscribed QUEEN ISABELLA / DOCUMENT SIGNED / 1501. The items are mounted in a linen mat and housed in a gold-finished molded wood frame. Sight: 11" H x 8" W. Frame: 17 3/4" H x 19 3/4" W.

Isabella I of Castile (Spanish, 1451-1504). One-page manuscript document on paper, royal order regarding diplomatic gifts, 1501. The document is signed with the royal sign-manual La Reyna at the top center. It is countersigned Por mandado de la Reyna by royal secretary Miguel perez dalmazan. Dated at the conclusion of the first paragraph. The text outlines an order for the Queen's chamberlain Sancho de Paredes to deliver silver-gilt cups to French ambassadors. The lower portion includes notarial attestations signed by Sancho de Paredes and Diego de Marañon. A 19th-century engraving titled ISABELLA OF CASTILE accompanies the document, noting the source as the Royal Palace at Madrid. A small paper label on the lower right of the mat is inscribed QUEEN ISABELLA / DOCUMENT SIGNED / 1501. The items are mounted in a linen mat and housed in a gold-finished molded wood frame. Sight: 11" H x 8" W. Frame: 17 3/4" H x 19 3/4" W. Documents from the age of exploration that Peter kept within arm's reach. Many of the wrecks he dove in Bermuda and the Caribbean were Spanish ships, and he liked to hold paper signed by the monarchs who sent them. Peter wrote about people who went looking for what lay beyond the horizon, and these were a daily spark for the stories. 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 manuscript document shows overall age-toning, visible horizontal and vertical fold lines, light foxing, and several small scattered stains. The engraved portrait exhibits minor light toning. The frame displays light surface wear and minor separation at the joints. Not examined out of the frame. 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.