#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

"Origami - the world tree"

November 9-25, 2023

Every year, on November 11, World Origami Day is celebrated.

Although the origins are still not well known, it is assumed that the 6th century would be the starting point of the art of origami, first in Japan, then it was spread throughout the world, "landing" on European territory somewhere between the 17th and XVIII. It is a specifically Japanese technique of folding paper, which can take various forms, from models of living creatures and inanimate objects to geometric, abstract figures.

Nowadays, the art of origami is appreciated by people of all ages, representing a form of artistic manifestation, but also a passion, in which creativity, imagination and patience play a very important role. Moreover, it has become art, which is part of pedagogy, being practiced in kindergartens and schools during manual work hours.

The temporary exhibition "Origami - the world tree", dedicated to World Origami Day, presents a series of pieces made, in classic and modular style, by children and members of the Origami Moldova Association, divided into:

- "Momijigari" - a beautiful Japanese tradition, which literally means "maple leaf hunting". It is a centuries-old custom of the Japanese people to admire the changing colors of the leaves in autumn. The landscape, which becomes a work of art, inspires many artists, poets and ordinary people.

- Origami has no age limits. During its 26 years of activity, the Origami Moldova Association has gathered around it people of different ages. This section displays works by adult members for whom origami is art therapy.

- The Japanese system for the development of the child's intellect, developed by the neurobiologist Kikunori Shinohara, is the priority direction of the origami technique in Moldova. The exhibited pieces are made by children guided by Lilia Socolova, the president of the Origami Moldova Association, who uses this method in the training process. Since 1997, his students have participated in various republican and international exhibitions, obtaining diplomas and appreciations.

The opening of the exhibition "Origami - the world tree" took place on 9th of November, at 12:00. The exhibition is organized by the National History Museum of Moldova in partnership with the Origami Moldova Association and will be accessible to the general public from November 9 to 25, 2023, in the ground floor hall, National Museum of History of Moldova, Chisinau, 31 August 1989 street, 121A.

#Exhibit of the Month

Glass Goblet from the Sântana de Mureș-Chernyakhov Cemetery (4th Century AD) in Tigheci

"Origami - the world tree"

November 9-25, 2023

#Exhibit of the Month