#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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Interactive visit for children with hearing disabilities

October 4, 2022

On October 4, at the National Museum of History of Moldova, the Department of Public Relations and Museum Education in collaboration with the Professional School no. 11 for young people with hearing impairments from Chisinau, organized a beautiful activity, entitled "Words that are seen, gestures that are heard".

Together with the museographer Galina Mîrzac, in the Red Room, the students got to know Cucutenian vessels and culture, so that later, in our workshops, they will have the opportunity to make and paint their own vessels. Inspired by ancient paintings, the students created some splendid vessels that they were able to take home as souvenirs.

Young people who have hearing impairments are exposed daily to the risk of not being accepted or noticed by society. Most of them attended, starting from kindergarten, special institutions where they were helped by experts in sign language. In order to work, most would need the support of a mime and gesture interpreter, and in the Republic of Moldova, for approximately 5,000 people with hearing problems, only nine mime specialists are authorized.

This activity brought a bit of sunshine to our Museum. The children's happiness animated and motivated us to organize such interactive visits more often. We hope that, through such activities, we will sensitize public opinion, so that inclusive practices can be found in more institutions in the country.

The Museum always has its doors wide open for everyone.