#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

Opening of the Exhibition "And They Saw the Voices..."

October 10, 2024

On October 10, the opening of the exhibition "And They Saw the Voices..." took place in the lobby of the National Museum of History of Moldova, bringing together representatives of the accredited diplomatic corps in Moldova, Jewish organizations, and representatives from other museums and institutions in the country. This event was dedicated to discussions about the tragedies of October 7, 2023, and the vital role of art in the emotional healing process.

The exhibition featured 30 drawings created by children evacuated from Ashkelon, who found solace in art therapy after the bombings on October 7, 2023. These works reflected not only the trauma experienced but also the power of regeneration and the hope found in the creative process.

The ceremony was opened by Irina Șihova, the director of the Jewish History Museum, who emphasized: "This is not a political statement, but a story about trauma, art, and healing."

Additionally, Chief Rabbi Pinchas Zalțman paid tribute to the exhibition, highlighting its importance in promoting community cohesion through art. He noted that in times of hardship and suffering, art becomes a common language that can transcend cultural and religious barriers, bringing people together to share experiences and emotions.

Vladimir Boroda, director of the MAALOT Association, stated: "This exhibition demonstrates how art can unite different perspectives, transforming suffering into beauty."

Throughout the event, the art teacher discussed the importance of art in the healing process, presenting the exhibited works and sharing the stories behind them. Among these were the drawing "Boom" by 10-year-old Aviv Shilo, which conveys a powerful message of hope, and the piece "Dance of Death" by student Filip Beleavschi, exploring themes of death and loss. Another notable work, "The Sounds of Sirens and Rockets," addressed the traumatic effects of conflicts, prompting viewers to reflect on the impact of these experiences.

Each drawing offered a window into the emotional world of these young artists, highlighting the significance of art as a form of expression and healing.

This exhibition became a space for meeting and dialogue, where compassion and empathy were essential, providing a unique opportunity to explore how art can unite communities and support the emotional healing process.

The exhibition is open until October 20, 2024, inviting the public to explore and reflect on the messages conveyed through art.