284 - Two ancient terracotta vessels representing utilitarian forms from the Mediterranean and Near Eastern regions. The first vessel is a fusiform balsamarium or unguentarium, likely of Roman origin. It features a wheel-thrown pear-shaped body constructed from a light buff to reddish-orange clay fabric. The exterior surface retains horizontal throwing marks and faint bands of pigment near the base, alongside significant mineral encrustations consistent with burial. The second vessel is a small juglet or pouring cup, possibly from the Levant or eastern Mediterranean provinces. It is characterized by a bulbous body, a hand-applied thick loop handle, a pinched pouring spout, and an irregular flared pedestal foot. The clay body of the juglet is a darker brownish-tan hue with a coarse texture and accumulated soil deposits. Unguentarium: 5" H x 2 1/4" diameter. Juglet: 3 1/4" H x 2 1/4" diameter. From the personal collection of Peter Benchley (American, 1940-2006), acclaimed author of Jaws, accomplished diver, and prominent advocate for ocean and shark conservation.

Two ancient terracotta vessels representing utilitarian forms from the Mediterranean and Near Eastern regions. The first vessel is a fusiform balsamarium or unguentarium, likely of Roman origin. It features a wheel-thrown pear-shaped body constructed from a light buff to reddish-orange clay fabric. The exterior surface retains horizontal throwing marks and faint bands of pigment near the base, alongside significant mineral encrustations consistent with burial. The second vessel is a small juglet or pouring cup, possibly from the Levant or eastern Mediterranean provinces. It is characterized by a bulbous body, a hand-applied thick loop handle, a pinched pouring spout, and an irregular flared pedestal foot. The clay body of the juglet is a darker brownish-tan hue with a coarse texture and accumulated soil deposits. Unguentarium: 5" H x 2 1/4" diameter. Juglet: 3 1/4" H x 2 1/4" diameter. 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 unguentarium neck and rim are missing, exhibiting an irregular jagged break at the top. The surface shows heavy weathering, pitting, and calcification throughout. The juglet handle has a significant transverse crack at the upper attachment point. The rim of the juglet is chipped and irregular, and the pedestal base has several small chips and an uneven edge. 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.