273 - German Zischagge lobster-tail helmet, 17th century. The hemispherical skull is reinforced by six raised radiating ribs and is topped with a circular suspension ring. A pointed forward peak houses a sliding nasal bar, which is secured by a threaded bracket with a heart-shaped thumb screw. The neck is protected by a four-lame articulated lobster-tail guard, and the sides are fitted with two triangular cheek pieces, each containing seven circular perforations. Stamped A L on the nasal bar terminal. 10" H x 20" L x 10" W. From the personal collection of Peter Benchley (American, 1940-2006), acclaimed author of Jaws, accomplished diver, and prominent advocate for ocean and shark conservation.

German Zischagge lobster-tail helmet, 17th century. The hemispherical skull is reinforced by six raised radiating ribs and is topped with a circular suspension ring. A pointed forward peak houses a sliding nasal bar, which is secured by a threaded bracket with a heart-shaped thumb screw. The neck is protected by a four-lame articulated lobster-tail guard, and the sides are fitted with two triangular cheek pieces, each containing seven circular perforations. Stamped A L on the nasal bar terminal. 10" H x 20" L x 10" W. 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: Significant surface oxidation and pitting are visible throughout the iron skull, peak, and guards (photo 2). One triangular cheek piece is detached from the helmet (photo 5). The metal shows irregular wear, pitting, and minor losses at the edges of the cheek pieces and articulated neck lames (photo 8). All components exhibit a dark, oxidized surface consistent with age (photo 7). 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.