Description A MASSIVE CHAM GOLD RING WITH MAKARA
Champa, 10th-13th century. The large ring with broad shoulders and a finely carved and incised top depicting a recumbent Makara with the hindlegs bent and an elephant trunk curled upwards over the head. Makara is a legendary sea-creature in Hindu mythology, appearing as the vahana (vehicle) of the river goddess Ganga, Narmada, and of the sea god Varuna. Makara are considered guardians of gateways and thresholds, protecting throne rooms as well as entryways to temples.
Provenance: Ex-Collection of The Zelnik István Southeast Asian Gold Museum. Institutional art collection in Belgium, acquired from the above.
Condition: Very good condition with minor traces of age and wear.
Weight: 23.0 g
Dimensions: Size 3.2 x 3.3 cm, Inner Diameter 2.1 cm
Alloy composition range: Gold 64-72 %, Silver 24-28 %, Copper 2-4 %.