#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

Vernissage of the Floral Art Exhibition "Bloom, Moldova!"

July 11, 2024

On Thursday, July 10, 2024, the National Museum of History of Moldova hosted the vernissage of the floral art exhibition "Bloom, Moldova!" This event was dedicated to celebrating 33 years of activity of the "Diana" Floristry Club, the only club of its kind in the country. The exhibition, organized in partnership with the club, gathered a significant number of visitors eager to admire the talent and craftsmanship of the floral artists.

The vernissage began with an exhibition presentation by the club's director, Lilia Marjina, who provided details about the oshibana technique used in creating the works, as well as the remarkable journey of the "Diana" Floristry Club over its 33 years of activity. This was followed by speeches from museum museographers and club representatives, who emphasized the importance of promoting floral art and the talent of local artists.

A distinctive element of the exhibition is the diversity of the works displayed, each one a testament to the talent and creativity of the club members. From delicate floral arrangements to complex floral sculptures, the exhibition offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of Japanese floral art, demonstrating the artists' mastery in using natural materials and transforming them into unique works of art.

During the vernissage, visitors had the opportunity to admire the 68 works created by the 8 club members, exhibited in the ground floor hall of the museum.

The exhibition "Bloom, Moldova!" will be open for visitation from July 11 to August 1, 2024, in the ground floor hall of the National Museum of History of Moldova (Chișinău, 31 August 1989 Street, 121A).