A CHAM GOLD NECKLACE WITH A CRESCENT MOON PECTORAL DEPICTING KALA
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 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, 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 other materials added to the lot such as gemstones, soil encrustations, casting cores or other metals processed within the lot.