#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.

Virtual Tour

Events Archive

Opening of the exhibition "Ovi D. Pop: My Romania"

December 1, 2023

Between December 1-15, the National Museum of History of Moldova has the honor of hosting an exceptional exhibition of the Romanian photographer Ovi D. Pop, entitled "Ovi D. Pop: My Romania".

Born in Oradea on April 9, 1973, Ovi D. Pop is a photographer with over 20 years of experience, tackling various genres of photographic art, including portraiture, nude, aerial photography and monuments. With an impressive portfolio, he is the director of the "Duran's" Publishing House in Oradea, where he published 7 illustrated monographs of Bihor county, as well as other notable works.

Since the beginning of the 2010s, Ovi D. Pop has also dedicated himself to artistic photography, obtaining outstanding distinctions at the national and international level, including the title of MAFR (Master of the Romanian Association of Photographers), E.FIAP/g (Excellence de Fédération Internationale l'Art Photographique) with gold rank and MPSA (Master of the Photographic Society of America).

His photographs have been awarded more than 2,300 awards, including 640 gold medals, first place and trophies in 91 countries. These creations have been exhibited in numerous cities in Romania and around the world, reflecting the diversity and talent of the photographer.

Presented by Ovi D. Pop, the exhibition offers viewers a captivating foray into his native country, capturing its essence and diversity through his sensitive eyes and lens. The exhibition is a celebration of special moments, light and shadows, captured in a unique and personal way.

The opening on 1 December marks the official opening of the exhibition, giving the public a chance to interact directly with the works and the artist.

The exhibition will be open to the public from December 1-15, 2023, on the fence of the National Museum of History of Moldova, str. 31 August 1989, 121A, Chisinau.

#Exhibit of the Month

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

Opening of the exhibition "Ovi D. Pop: My Romania"

December 1, 2023

#Exhibit of the Month