242 - Color photograph of author Peter Benchley (American, 1940-2006) showing a leg injury after a fell through a treetop in New Guinea. The photograph is mounted cardstock and housed in a wood frame. The verso of the mount is inscribed “New Guinea” in pencil. 20" H x 13 1/2" W x 1" D.

Color photograph of author Peter Benchley (American, 1940-2006) showing a leg injury after a fell through a treetop in New Guinea. The photograph is mounted cardstock and housed in a wood frame. The verso of the mount is inscribed “New Guinea” in pencil. 20" H x 13 1/2" W x 1" D. A personal note from Wendy Benchley: “This is a photo from a trip to Papua New Guinea with Valerie Taylor. Peter and I were returning to the dive boat at dusk along a steep mountain trail. Peter stepped to the side to let me pass, and what he thought was green grass turned out to be the top of a tree. He fell straight down through the tree, bouncing off a couple of branches, and landed in water. Had he landed on rock, he would have broken many limbs, but all he had was a skinned shin. Thus, the big smile!”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 photograph shows surface loss and scuffing at the upper right corner. A small horizontal scratch is present on the surface in the lower right foreground. The mounting card displays light toning and edge wear. The wooden frame has minor surface scuffs consistent with age. 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.