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. In 1980, Peter was in the Sea of Cortez on a National Geographic filming expedition when a giant manta ray with a 25-foot wingspan rose up beneath the boat. Michelle Hall went down to investigate and found the manta injured, its wing torn by fishing line. She carefully removed the line and gently packed the torn flesh back into place. The manta shuddered but did not swim away. Instead, it gave Michelle a ride and carried her back to the boat. When Peter heard the story, he strapped on his tank and went down. The manta gave him a wonderful ride, then stayed for three days, giving nearly everyone on the crew a ride too. The experience transformed Peter’s understanding of ocean wildlife as sentient beings. He came home and, in a very short span of time, wrote The Girl of the Sea of Cortez (see also Lots 240 and 258). 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.