Group of 3 Ancient Khmer (Cambodian) Artifacts: Bronze Ring, Glass Earring & Elephant Bell.

Group of 3 Ancient Khmer (Cambodian) Artifacts: Bronze Ring, Glass Earring & Elephant Bell. Centuries ago, a brilliant civilization flourished in the valleys and plains of what is now Cambodia. The Khmer culture created a remarkable artistic legacy, boldly expressive in form yet delicate in its sensibility. This lot includes: 1) Ancient Khmer Bronze Wild Ox Ring (ca. 800-1100 CE). A long-horned Kouprey (or wild ox species native to the Khmer region) is depicted in this rare piece, which was likely made for ritual use. This ring dates to the early Hindu period of the Khmer Empire. 2) Ancient Khmer Glass Earring (ca. 100 BCE). The translucent pale glass is a crescent shaped hoop, which makes it very elegant in form. At the time this was made, glass was a new technology in the Khmer Empire so it worth far more than gold of the same weight. Condition: There is some soil encrustation on the surface from the piece being buried. Has on site re-attached sections. 3) Ancient Khmer Elephant Bell & Clapper (ca. 1100-1300 CE) This type of bell was traditionally worn by elephants as well as other grazing animals in ancient Cambodia. Khmer art depicting armies on the march shows images of elephants carrying the king or nobility into battle. Bells such as this hung from the elephant's saddle, ringing as the animal moved. Provenance: ex-Dr. Gerald A. Smith collection. A large portion of’ this collection of Asian antiquities is now housed at the San Diego Chinese Historical Museum.