Bidspirit auction | Peter Benchley Diving with Manta

Peter Benchley Diving with Manta Ray, Chromogenic Print - Large-scale chromogenic print of Peter Benchley diving with a manta ray. The underwater photograph features a close-up view of a manta ray, with Benchley and ascending air bubbles visible in the background. The print is mounted in a slim metal frame. Unsigned. Frame: 25” H x 31” W x 1 1/4” D. A second photograph of Peter riding the giant manta in the Sea of Cortez in 1980, the encounter that changed how he saw ocean wildlife and inspired The Girl of the Sea of Cortez (see Lot 239). 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.