Bidspirit auction | Best Authorities Hand-Colored Engraving West

Best Authorities Hand-Colored Engraving West Indies Map - Hand-colored engraving, West Indies from the Best Authorities. This map illustrates the geography of the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea, including Central America and the northern coast of South America. The print features hand-colored outlines in pastel pink, yellow, and green. A decorative title cartouche is situated in the lower-left corner, and a scale in British Statute Miles is positioned at the bottom center. The sheet includes a visible vertical center fold and the inscription PL. 26. VOL. IV. in the upper-right corner, indicating its origin as an atlas plate. Sight: 8 3/4 x 13 1/4 in. Frame: 13 3/4 x 18 1/4 x 3/4 in. From the personal collection of Peter Benchley (American, 1940–2006), acclaimed author of Jaws, accomplished diver, and prominent advocate for ocean and shark conservation.