#Exhibit of the Month

This remarkable portrait of Mihai Eminescu, created by artist Alexandru Gușanov, is based on one of the four known photographs of the poet. The photograph that inspired this portrait was taken in 1869 in Wenceslas Square, Prague, when Eminescu was only 19 years old. The oval composition and harmonious color palette highlight the prominent personality and charisma of the young poet, capturing an expression that conveys both melancholy and intellectual depth.
Alexandru Gușanov (1929-2005), a Moldovan painter of Ukrainian origin, distinguished himself through his extensive work, comprising approximately 5,000 pieces - portraits, landscapes, and still life paintings. Settled in Moldova since 1945, Gușanov graduated from the Republican Art School "I.E. Repin" in Chișinău in 1952. His works were showcased in numerous national and international exhibitions and were highly appreciated in countries such as France, Hungary, Russia, and Yugoslavia. The artist dedicated a significant part of his career to creating portraits of historical and cultural figures, including Dimitrie Cantemir, Mihail Kogălniceanu, and Alexei Mateevici, which are part of the National Museum of History of Moldova's collection.

The subject of the portrait, Mihai Eminescu (1850-1889), is the most significant poet in Romanian literature, whose works reflect profound thought, sensitivity toward nature, and national identity. At the age of 19, when the photograph that inspired this portrait was taken, Eminescu was in the midst of his intellectual formation, preparing to become the iconic voice of Romanian culture. Among his most famous works is the poem Luceafărul (The Morning Star), a masterpiece of universal literature.

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Events Archive

Opening of the Exhibition "Moldovan Painters of Jewish Origin"

September 9, 2024

On September 9, 2024, the National Museum of History of Moldova hosted the opening of the exhibition "Moldovan Painters of Jewish Origin," part of the European Days of Jewish Culture Festival. The event took place at the museum's headquarters, Str. 31 August 1989, No. 121A.

The exhibition, organized by the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Moldova, the Jewish Community of Moldova, with support from the Agency for Interethnic Relations, the European Association for the Conservation and Promotion of Jewish Culture and Heritage, the Embassies of Austria and the Czech Republic, the Nativ Mission, and the Israeli Cultural Center, showcased the works of three distinguished Moldovan artists: Eduard Maidenberg, Mihail Brunea, and Iakov Tihman.

The event was inaugurated by Dr. Eugen Sava, General Director of the National Museum of History of Moldova, who highlighted the importance and significance of the exhibition within Moldova's cultural landscape. Sergiu Prodan, Minister of Culture of the Republic of Moldova, delivered a speech acknowledging the festival and exhibition's role in celebrating and preserving Jewish cultural heritage.

Alexander Bilinkis, President of the Jewish Community of Moldova, spoke about the significance of the exhibition and the contributions of the featured artists to Moldovan and Jewish cultural traditions. Additionally, Marina Anukova, Head of the Nativ Representation in Moldova and the Israeli Cultural Center, extended a greeting, emphasizing the importance of international collaboration in promoting and celebrating cultural heritage.

The exhibition featured works by Eduard Maidenberg, born February 10, 1960, known for his contributions to book graphics; Mihail Brunea, born in 1949, recognized for his unique technique combining three-dimensional elements, color, and graphics; and Iakov Tihman, born November 20, 1945, acknowledged for his long-standing dedication to painting, literature, and community leadership.
Open to the public from September 9 to September 14, 2024, the exhibition provided a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the artistic contributions of the three artists, adding depth and diversity to Moldovan and Jewish cultural heritage.

The "Moldovan Painters of Jewish Origin" exhibition can be visited from September 7 to September 14, 2024, at the National Museum of History of Moldova, Chișinău, Str. 31 August 1989, No. 121A.

#Exhibit of the Month

Portrait of Mihai Eminescu by Alexandru Gușanov

Opening of the Exhibition "Moldovan Painters of Jewish Origin"

September 9, 2024

#Exhibit of the Month