Pyu city-states, 2nd-10th century. The translucent stone of an iron red color with natural yellow to orange inclusions, skillfully carved and neatly incised to depict a tiger with the back arched and the front paws extended forwards as if preparing to pounce at its prey. Pierced through the tiger’s neck and tail to allow suspension as a pendant. This piece was personally examined by Burmese American archaeologist and gemologist Terence Tan, a leading expert in Pyu art and Burmese gemstones, and Hungarian gemologist Dr. József Takács. Their analysis finds that the stone is an aventurine with a rare iron-red color and the talisman is original, ancient, cut by hand with carving, boring and grinding. The color is original and natural with rare yellow inclusions. There are no traces of dye in the recesses of the stone. There are clearly visible traces of primitive tool marks on the surface. The stone has been cleaned by hand; the fine ancient patina has been preserved. The holes are ancient, irregular, and funnel-shaped, with traces of wear. A certificate signed by Dr. Zelnik attesting to the above will be handed to the winning bidder upon request. 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: 32.0 g Dimensions: Length 7.4 cm Literature comparison: Similar tiger talismans are published throughout Burmese Gemstone Amulets and Talismans Volume 1 (part of the series From the Collection of Dr. Zelnik), Budapest 2016.