#Exhibit of the Month

We find ourselves in the month of April, as we prepare to celebrate Easter-a moveable religious holiday rich in festive rituals and ceremonial activities that place this event at the very heart of Christian spiritual life. The spirit of the Resurrection is beautifully complemented by ten Easter-themed postcards from the heritage of the National Museum of History of Moldova, printed a century ago. These pieces were added to the museum's postcard collection over a decade ago following a successful acquisition; as the fund for Easter-themed illustrations is modest, we are in a constant search for new additions.

These postcards are "extraordinary" in terms of their postal, typographical, and chromatic effects-the primary reason for revisiting this genre of greetings. Unlike "classic" postcards, these are smaller in size (6.5 cm x 11 cm), made of cardboard (with the exception of one piece made of photographic paper in black and white), and feature "vivid" colors. Printed in Romania and Germany, they bear the marks of having been sent and circulated through the post.

The name of the holiday originates from the verb persach, meaning "to pass," a term adopted by the Jews from the Egyptians. It entered the Romanian language through the Byzantine-Latin form Paschae, signifying the "passage through death to life, the victory of life, and liberation from the bondage of sin." Easter is a holiday of tolerance and forgiveness, representing a bridge between the present and the past. The significance of this celebration is conveyed through its symbols, which are also featured on these postcards: Hand-painted eggs, the Easter Bunny and the Lamb, traditional sweet breads (cozonac and pască), biblical scenes related to the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

The Easter table also features pască-a ritual food reminiscent of ancient, bloodless "reconciliation" sacrifices. Its preparation is the exclusive task of women, the givers of life, as the leavened dough is considered "alive."

The most significant component of the Easter holiday, however, is the Light. The Ceremony of the Holy Light is associated with the miracle of the light appearing on Easter Sunday at Christ's Tomb in Jerusalem. The candle, often depicted in these images, carries a powerful message; it is with the Resurrection candle that we return home after the midnight religious service. Furthermore, the Easter Bunny represents the rebirth of nature, so eagerly awaited after a harsh winter.

Unlike Christmas, when the announcement and ritual integration of the community into sacred time was the duty of caroling groups, at Easter, "one does not go from house to house." Instead, the ritual meal is organized within each family, symbolizing a direct communion with God.

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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

Easter-Themed Postcards

Opening of the Exhibition "Moldovan Painters of Jewish Origin"

September 9, 2024

#Exhibit of the Month