A PAIR OF GOLD EAR ORNAMENTS, ÓC EO CULTURE Lot n° 45

Óc Eo Culture, Mekong Delta, 3rd – 7th century. The earrings cast in solid gold are symmetrically shaped with round cross-sections and opposing flat ends in a tapering oval shape, known as the ‘open oval’. An incredibly well-preserved archaeological treasure. 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: Very good condition, commensurate with age. Weight: 19.2 g in total Dimensions: Size 1.9 x 1.4 cm each Metallurgic analysis: Fine gold content 900/1000 Literature Comparison: A similar piece is published in Gold Treasures of the Cham Kingdoms from the Collection of Dr. Zelnik Volume 1, no. 22 (page 49), 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, casting cores or other metals processed within the lot.