A CHAM GOLD NECKLACE WITH A CRESCENT MOON PECTORAL... Lot n° 1

Central Cham kingdom, classical period, 10th – 12th century. A very decorative Cham pectoral in the form of a crescent moon, depicting Kala (kirthimukha), the demon of passing time, in the center. Kala’s expressive head is surrounded by floral designs and eleven inlaid gemstones (zircon and almandine). Joined to rear ends of this museum quality pectoral are two thin gold hooks, allowing it to be worn as a necklace. The Kala mask is often seen in Cham art and was intended to evoke fear and dispel evil. Provenance: From the collection of Dr. Istvan Zelnik, Hungary. Dr. Zelnik has built one of the most fascinating and vast collections of South East Asian artworks during the past 4 decades. His collection is considered one of the three most important published collections in the world and he is the director of the Hungarian South and Southeast Asian Research Institute. An official attest by the Hungarian South and Southeast Asian Research Institute signed by Dr. Zelnik can be provided to the high bidder upon request after payment for the object has been made in full. A private owner, acquired from the above several years ago. Condition: Good condition with traces of wear and age as well as extensive soil encrustation, one of the clasps missing. Weight: 26.7 g Dimensions: Pectoral Height 5.1 cm, Width 12.7 cm Metallurgic analysis: Fine gold content 662/1000 Published: Gold Treasures of the Cham Kingdoms from the Collection of Dr. Zelnik Volume 1, no. 89 (page 116), Budapest 2007. Metallurgic Analysis The data from the metallurgic analysis posted in the catalogue entry for each lot in this auction relates to the proportion of fine gold contained in the gold alloy only. It does not relate to the gross weight of the lot, as the gross weight typically consists of the weight of the gold alloy and the weight of ot