A RARE CHAM REPOUSSE GOLD HAIRPIN WITH DANCING KALA
Central Cham kingdom, most probably Vijaya, classical period, 10th - 12th century. The top of the hairpin, executed in repousse and decorated with gold thread, shows a rare depiction of a dancing Kala (kirthimukha), the demon of passing time, on both sides with an oval gemstone (zircon or garnet) above his head, with a small ball-shaped ornament below with four inlaid gemstones and further gold thread decorations.

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, only few traces of wear along with patina and soil encrustations.

Weight: 25.3 g
Dimensions: Length 17.5 cm
Metallurgic analysis: Fine gold content 672/1000

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.