#Exhibit of the Month

The exhibit of the month for November is a rare glass goblet from the Sântana de Mureș-Chernyakhov cemetery, discovered in Tigheci. Dated to the second half of the 4th century AD, this remarkable artifact demonstrates the craftsmanship of the time, made from translucent greenish glass with a truncated cone shape and intricate geometric decoration. The goblet features three rows of hexagonal facets, framed by incised lines, and a row of elongated ovals under the rim, characteristics which classify it within Series VII A, according to E. Straume's classification. These ornamental traits hint at artistic influences from various regions and indicate the spread of technologies and ideas within the Sântana de Mureș-Chernyakhov culture.

Archaeological Context of the Discovery

The Sântana de Mureș-Chernyakhov cemetery at Tigheci is located in a historically complex area, positioned on the northwest slope of the Tigheci River, at the "La Lutărie" point. First identified in the 1980s following unauthorized clay extraction, the cemetery has suffered considerable damage, leading to the loss of valuable artifacts and the destruction of graves. Among the objects recovered by Mr. Ion Pușcașu, founder of the Museum of History and Ethnography in Tigheci, are wheel-thrown ceramic items reflecting the traditions and techniques of communities during the Migration Period.

The site was first archaeologically investigated in 1990, when a complete inhumation grave was found, though lacking any inventory. Subsequent surveys in 2013 and 2015 by the National Archaeological Agency revealed ongoing erosion damaging the cemetery, necessitating a rescue excavation in 2017. This campaign documented and investigated five graves from the Sântana de Mureș-Chernyakhov culture, including the skeletal remains of a male individual estimated to have been 40 to 45 years old at the time of death, offering additional insights into the demographic structure of this community.

Cultural Significance and Comparisons

The hexagonally faceted glass goblet is among the most valuable artifacts from the Tigheci cemetery. Similar goblets are characteristic of the Sântana de Mureș-Chernyakhov culture and have been found in notable sites such as Târgșor and Bârlad-Valea Seacă (Romania) and Gavrilovka, Ranjevoe (Ukraine), reflecting the cultural and trade connections of this community with other centers of influence in Late Antiquity. Ancient texts and cultural parallels suggest a complex interaction zone with Hellenistic and Roman influences, reflected in luxury goods production such as this glass goblet.

Virtual Tour

Exhibitions

"Astrophysicist Nicolae DONICI - 150 Years of Light"

September 15 – October 15, 2024

The National Museum of History of Moldova, in partnership with the „Mihai Eminescu" Romanian Cultural Institute in Chișinău and the „Heritage 21" Foundation, will host the exhibition titled "Astrophysicist Nicolae Donici - 150 Years of Light".

This initiative aims to present, in an accessible and concise manner, the remarkable life and achievements of Nicolae Donici (September 1/13, 1874 - November 21, 1960), a descendant of an old noble family from Moldova. Donici was a pioneering figure in the field of astronomy, internationally recognized as an Honorary Member of the Romanian Academy, Doctor Honoris Causa of the University of Coimbra in Portugal, and one of the early members of the International Astronomical Union. His research on solar eclipses and cosmic phenomena earned him worldwide recognition in the scientific community.

A significant moment in his scientific career was the establishment of a private astronomical observatory in 1908 at Dubăsarii Vechi, on his aunt's estate. Dedicated to the study of astral phenomena, this observatory gained international fame due to Donici's ingenuity in adapting and improving his equipment. Among his notable achievements was the construction, in 1909, of a spectroheliograph, which he used to photograph the solar chromosphere in K rays (calcium), making it the only such equipment in Eastern Europe at the time. His detailed research on photospheric granules, chromospheric filaments, and solar prominences significantly advanced scientific knowledge in this field.

The exhibition also highlights Nicolae Donici's contributions to the International Astronomical Union (IAU), where he had a remarkable presence. He was an active member of several scientific commissions, including the Solar Physics Commission and the Solar Eclipses Commission. Donici attended all eight IAU congresses held between 1922 and 1955, in cities such as Rome, Cambridge, Leiden, Paris, and Stockholm. At the 1935 Paris congress, he presented the results of his research on the solar atmosphere, conducted at his observatory in Dubăsarii Vechi. His proposal to include the study of zodiacal light in the program of the Solar Atmosphere Commission was adopted, further establishing him as a leader in international astronomical research.

The 20 panels of the exhibition provide an extensive overview of his life and work, highlighting his importance as a pioneer of global astronomy and his role in advancing solar research. Through these materials, visitors will not only learn about Donici's scientific achievements but also gain insight into his lasting legacy for world science.

The exhibition can be viewed from September 15 to October 15, 2024, on the fence of the National Museum of History of Moldova, Chișinău, 121A, 31 August 1989 Street.