A CHAM GOLD NECKLACE WITH A CRESCENT MOON PECTORAL... Lot n° 4

Central or southern Cham kingdom, period of Khmer rule over Champa, 11th century. A decorative golden pectoral of museum quality in the form of a crescent moon and showing a floral design composed of gemstones with an amethyst in the center surrounded by almandines. The gemstone flower is flanked on both sides with two dancing figures in repoussé. Two gold hooks are attached to the pectoral, allowing it to be worn as a necklace. 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: Overall in very good condition with minor traces of wear and age as well as fine patina and soil encrustation. Weight: 34.1 g Dimensions: Height 4.5 cm, Width 14.0 cm Metallurgic analysis: Fine gold content 664/1000 Published: Gold Treasures of the Cham Kingdoms from the Collection of Dr. Zelnik Volume 1, no. 90 (page 117), 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 other materials added to the lot such as gemstones, soil encrustations, castin