#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

International Collaboration

April 13, 2023

The visit of the ambassador of the People's Republic of China to Chisinau H.S. Yan Wenbin at the National Museum of History of Moldova

On April 13, 2023, the National Museum of History of Moldova had the honor of receiving the visit of H.E. Yan Wenbin, Ambassador of the People's Republic of China in Chisinau. The purpose of the meeting was to intensify cultural relations between Moldova and China through history, culture and museum education. In this regard, the organization of joint exhibitions, scientific conferences and study visits was discussed in order to deepen the exchange of experience in the field of research and museography.

On behalf of the National Museum of History of Moldova in the discussions participated General Director Eugen Sava, Deputy Directors Livia Sîrbu and Alexandru Argint, as well as the main communication specialist Sorin Șclearuc.

During the discussion, Mr. Eugen Sava pointed out the possibility of cooperation in terms of research, restoration and conservation of the cultural and historical heritage of both countries through direct collaboration with museums in China. For his part, the Chinese Ambassador showed great interest in the culture and history of the Republic of Moldova, emphasizing that they represent an important bridge between the two countries and peoples. At the end of the meeting, H.E. Yan Wenbin visited the halls of the museum and admired the unique collections of archeology and history.

The National Museum of History of Moldova is honored to collaborate with the People's Republic of China in the promotion and protection of cultural and historical heritage, as well as in the development of cultural and educational relations between the two countries.