**Originally Listed At $1200**

Central Asia, Pakistan and Afghanistan, Gandharan Empire, ca. 200 BCE to 100 CE. A stunning necklace comprised of 10 bell-shaped beads made from 87.5% gold (equivalent to 21K) with detailing and forms that suggest they may be variants of stupas and 54 glass tubular beads presenting beautiful spring green hues. Interestingly, gold was not readily available in the ancient region of Gandhara and probably came to Gandhara via trade with the Mediterranean. Given this, such jewelry would have served as a grand statement of the wearer's social status. A lovely work of wearable art that is certain to make heads turn! Size: 19" L (48.3 cm); (gold beads): 0.75" L x 0.375" Diameter (1.9 cm x 1 cm); (glass beads): 0.25" L (0.6 cm); gold quality: 87.5% (equivalent to 21K)

Representations of jewelry on ancient Kushan statues demonstrates these peoples' desire to embellish individuals with all sorts of baubles. Whereas wearing jewelry was a practice reserved for women prior to and following the Kushans, both men and women wore jewelry in Kushan society. Just how lavish and luxurious the jewelry was depended on the social status of the owner. The most extravagant jewelry was worn by kings and queens, those of regal birth, as well as deities and bodhisattvas.

Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010

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#151670

Wearable as shown and strung in modern times. Glass and gold beads are ancient, and stringing is modern. Scuffs and minute nicks to peripheries of glass beads. Gold beads are intact and in fabulous condition.