286 - Group of four religious items consisting of three crucifix pendants and one adjustable band ring. The pieces are constructed of cast brass and bronze with varying degrees of gold plating. The largest crucifix features ornate foliate openwork terminals and a central figure of Christ in high relief. The matching pair of smaller crucifixes are rectangular in form with a cast Corpus on the obverse above a skull and crossbones. One is suspended from a gold-plated curb link chain with a lobster claw clasp. The verso of these pendants features a central relief of the Virgin Mary in prayer. The band ring is an adjustable bypass style with embossed floral and scrolling foliate decoration on the exterior. The smaller pendants are inscribed with INRI on the obverse and VITAM PRAESTA PURAM and MARIA on the verso. From the personal collection of Peter Benchley (American, 1940-2006), acclaimed author of Jaws, accomplished diver, and prominent advocate for ocean and shark conservation.

Group of four religious items consisting of three crucifix pendants and one adjustable band ring. The pieces are constructed of cast brass and bronze with varying degrees of gold plating. The largest crucifix features ornate foliate openwork terminals and a central figure of Christ in high relief. The matching pair of smaller crucifixes are rectangular in form with a cast Corpus on the obverse above a skull and crossbones. One is suspended from a gold-plated curb link chain with a lobster claw clasp. The verso of these pendants features a central relief of the Virgin Mary in prayer. The band ring is an adjustable bypass style with embossed floral and scrolling foliate decoration on the exterior. The smaller pendants are inscribed with INRI on the obverse and VITAM PRAESTA PURAM and MARIA on the verso. 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 largest crucifix has a broken left arm currently secured with a black cord. There is significant orange adhesive residue on the verso of the large cross. All metal components exhibit surface wear, heavy patina, and oxidation consistent with age. The embossed details on the ring are softened from use. The pendants show varying levels of plating loss and tarnish. 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.