79 - Philip II (Spanish, 1527-1598) and P. Piquet (French, 19th Century). Signed manuscript royal decree on paper and engraving, 1574. The archival presentation includes a primary manuscript document dated May 2, 1574, alongside a smaller manuscript address fragment and a full-length portrait engraving of the monarch in courtly attire. The manuscript is signed at the bottom center in brown ink Yo El Rey with a secretary signature reading Juan de B and is inscribed VI. at the upper left corner. The engraving is signed P. Piquet in the plate at the lower right. The items are housed in a triple-window tan mat within a molded gilt-wood frame. Sight: 11 1/2 x 7 3/4 in. Frame: 17 1/2 x 20 1/4 in.

Philip II (Spanish, 1527-1598) and P. Piquet (French, 19th Century). Signed manuscript royal decree on paper and engraving, 1574. The archival presentation includes a primary manuscript document dated May 2, 1574, alongside a smaller manuscript address fragment and a full-length portrait engraving of the monarch in courtly attire. The manuscript is signed at the bottom center in brown ink Yo El Rey with a secretary signature reading Juan de B and is inscribed VI. at the upper left corner. The engraving is signed P. Piquet in the plate at the lower right. The items are housed in a triple-window tan mat within a molded gilt-wood frame. Sight: 11 1/2 x 7 3/4 in. Frame: 17 1/2 x 20 1/4 in. 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 16th-century manuscript and address fragment exhibit overall toning, scattered foxing, and visible horizontal fold lines. The engraving appears in good condition with no visible faults. The molded gilt-wood frame displays minor scattered nicks and surface wear to the gilding. Light dust and minor staining are visible on the interior surface of the glazing. 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.