294 - American folk art assemblage crown constructed from hand-formed galvanized sheet metal, presented to Peter Benchley. The structure features a jagged, serrated upper rim and is densely adorned with a variety of found objects and jewelry secured by mechanical fasteners. Decorative elements include a 1941-1942 North Carolina chauffeur badge, a 1939 Gulf Oil merit award pin, a deputy sheriff star, a Rolling Hills Country Club emblem, and various rhinestone-encrusted jewelry fragments. The peaks are mounted with gold-tone winged trophy finials and draped with rosary beads and metal chains. The interior contains a tan fabric cross-strap suspension liner. The crown is adorned with numerous inscribed badges and emblems. 9" H x 9" W x 8 1/2" 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.

American folk art assemblage crown constructed from hand-formed galvanized sheet metal, presented to Peter Benchley. The structure features a jagged, serrated upper rim and is densely adorned with a variety of found objects and jewelry secured by mechanical fasteners. Decorative elements include a 1941-1942 North Carolina chauffeur badge, a 1939 Gulf Oil merit award pin, a deputy sheriff star, a Rolling Hills Country Club emblem, and various rhinestone-encrusted jewelry fragments. The peaks are mounted with gold-tone winged trophy finials and draped with rosary beads and metal chains. The interior contains a tan fabric cross-strap suspension liner. The crown is adorned with numerous inscribed badges and emblems. 9" H x 9" W x 8 1/2" 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 galvanized metal base exhibits a characteristic oxidized, spangled surface with areas of surface rust, particularly around the screws and bolts. The attached decorative elements show scattered losses to glass rhinestones and enamel, along with moderate tarnish to the various base metals. The interior fabric straps show light soiling and age-related wear. 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.