274 - Antique Ottoman style war axe featuring a broad, crescent-shaped iron blade. The head is forged with a straight primary cutting edge and pronounced upper and lower points, integrated into a socketed head with a slightly stepped neck. The iron exhibits an overall dark aged patina with surface oxidation and pitting consistent with an antique piece. The head is mounted on a cylindrical wooden haft that has been coated in a dark, textured black finish. Numerous chips and losses to the finish reveal an orange-toned wood underneath. A small iron loop is screwed into the base of the handle. 18" L x 5" W x 1 1/4" D. From the personal collection of Peter Benchley (American, 1940-2006), acclaimed author of Jaws, accomplished diver, and prominent advocate for ocean and shark conservation.

Antique Ottoman style war axe featuring a broad, crescent-shaped iron blade. The head is forged with a straight primary cutting edge and pronounced upper and lower points, integrated into a socketed head with a slightly stepped neck. The iron exhibits an overall dark aged patina with surface oxidation and pitting consistent with an antique piece. The head is mounted on a cylindrical wooden haft that has been coated in a dark, textured black finish. Numerous chips and losses to the finish reveal an orange-toned wood underneath. A small iron loop is screwed into the base of the handle. 18" L x 5" W x 1 1/4" D. 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 iron blade and socket show overall oxidation and pitting. The wooden haft exhibits significant wear to the black finish with multiple losses revealing the natural wood color. The iron loop at the base is intact but shows oxidation. 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.