#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

International Charity Bazaar, 24th edition

December 4, 2022

On December 4, the National Museum of History of Moldova hosted the 24th edition of the International Charity Bazaar, organized by the International Women's Club of Moldova in partnership with accredited embassies in Chisinau and international organizations.

During the event, embassies, international organizations, local NGOs and development agencies, handicraft and art vendors came together to share cultures, customs, culinary delights and other items from the countries concerned, which visitors could buy. The general public could visit the stands organized by countries such as Romania, Ukraine, the United States of America, the Czech Republic, Kazakhstan, India, Poland, China, Georgia, Sweden, Japan, Lithuania, Latvia, Great Britain, Azerbaijan, Qatar, Austria , Bulgaria, Hungary, Italy, France but also a number of artisans from the Republic of Moldova.

All proceeds from the event are directed to charity projects implemented next year in Moldova, including improving medical care for children, supporting patients with palliative care, alleviating the needs of refugees and many others.

"It's such a pleasant atmosphere, and we from the Embassy of Japan brought several items that were taken immediately after we opened the small store," said the Japanese ambassador to the Republic of Moldova, Yoshihiro Katayama, for PRO TV.

"We hope that we can earn money for the children of the "Emilian Coțaga" Hospital and, of course, we will not forget the Ukrainian children. We will make gifts for them on Saint Nicholas Day", said the president of the International Women's Club of Moldova and the wife of the Ambassador of Ukraine to the Republic of Moldova, Olesea Şevcenko.

The National Museum of History of Moldova is honored to be the partner of this event and supports the charity actions that come to contribute to the improvement of medical care for children, refugees and any people in need.

#Exhibit of the Month

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

International Charity Bazaar, 24th edition

December 4, 2022

#Exhibit of the Month