#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.

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Events Archive

African Fashion Show for Charity 2024

May 25, 2024

On May 25, 2024 African Fashion Show for Charity took place at the National Museum of History of Moldova in Chișinău. This event, now in its second edition, aims to promote cultural diversity and support charitable causes.

The event was supported by famous international model Kamila Lumor, who flew from Milan for the occasion. Among the distinguished guests were the Minister of Education and Research, Dan Perciun, the Romanian Ambassador to Chișinău, Cristian-Leon Țurcanu, diplomatic representatives, influential public figures from Moldova, and fashion enthusiasts.

The show featured unique clothing pieces from renowned international designers such as Zita Milano from the UK, representatives from India via the Indo-Mold Business and Cultural Organization (IMBCO), as well as local designers such as Florii, Gorgette, and C'EST Cher. Students from the Technical University of Moldova and State Pedagogical University "Ion Creangă" also had the opportunity to showcase their creations on the runway.

Founded by Yerie Mary Kamara Paglione, the African Fashion Show for Charity aims to unite African and European cultures, celebrating the friendship and cultural diversity between these continents. The event brought together participants from Sierra Leone, UK, Ghana, Moldova, India, Colombia, and Turkey.

The funds raised through ticket sales, donations, and the sale of African accessories are dedicated to supporting charitable initiatives, such as the development of palliative care services by the organization Hospices of Hope Moldova and aid young designers in Moldova through the ZIP House fashion hub.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who made this event possible:

General Sponsor: Association of Community Initiatives and Sport (ASICS)
Partners: National Museum of History of Moldova, Lifemantra Maven Solutions, International Women Club Moldova, Embassy of India in Bucharest, Regency Hotel, Irina Negara Desert, ZIPhouse Fashion Hub, Iomodels School, Ozlem Sertel, Basavin Winery, Zentrum Restaurants, Pearl Code, Sabrina Gubadov - Social Media Consultant, iTicket.
Media Partners: Vocea Basarabiei, Radio Noroc
Photo Partner: Ruslan Chihai

We also extend our gratitude to all the volunteers who dedicated their time to help organize this event.