Bidspirit auction | Marquesan Carved Volcanic Stone Tiki

Marquesan Carved Volcanic Stone Tiki and Terracotta Pedestal Vessel - A pair of ethnographic artifacts comprising a carved stone sculpture and a ceramic vessel. The first object is a Polynesian carved volcanic stone figure originating from the Marquesas Islands, depicting a tiki with characteristic goggle-shaped eyes, a wide mouth, and stylized hands resting on the abdomen. The figure is carved in the round with a flat base. The underside of the sculpture bears an incised inscription reading TAUE ATUONA. The second item is a small terracotta vessel of globular form featuring a flared pedestal base and concentric incised lines encircling the shoulder. An old paper label is adhered to the body with handwritten French text reading ”Trouvé à Sevy, sur l’emplacement de la fontaine.” Stone: 2 3/8” H x 3 1/4” W x 4” D. Ceramic: 3” H x 2 3/8” diameter. From the personal collection of Peter Benchley (American, 1940–2006), acclaimed author of Jaws, accomplished diver, and prominent advocate for ocean and shark conservation.