A CHAM REPOUSSé GOLD NECKLACE WITH A PECTORAL DEPICTING A SEATED HINDU DEITY
Central Cham kingdom, classical period, 10th – 12th century. The pectoral executed in repoussé depicting a seated Hindu deity in the center, holding large flower buds in his hands. The third eye and mustache suggest Shiva, the most revered Hindu deity among the Cham. A decorative gemstone is inlaid above the deity’s head. The pectoral is attached to a massive woven gold chain to serve as a necklace.
Provenance: From an important European private collection. Acquired in Asia between 1960 and 1970. A private owner, acquired from the above.
Condition: Good condition with traces of wear and age as well as extensive soil encrustation and fine patina.
Weight: 96.4 g
Dimensions: Length of gold chain 58 cm, Height of pectoral 7.1 cm, Width of pectoral 8.2 cm
Metallurgic analysis: Fine gold content 649/1000
Literature comparison: A similar pectoral is published in Gold Treasures of the Cham Kingdoms from the Collection of Dr. Zelnik Volume 2, no. 67 (page 120), Budapest 2008.
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.