#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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Exhibitions

"And They Saw the Voices..."

October 10 – 20, 2024

From October 10 to 20, 2024, the National Museum of History of Moldova will host the exhibition "And They Saw the Voices...", an event dedicated to commemorating the tragic events of October 7, 2023, which marked a turning point in Israel's history. This remarkable initiative is organized by the Museum of Jewish History in the Republic of Moldova, in partnership with the National Museum of History of Moldova and the Maalot Association, with the support of the Embassy of Israel and the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Moldova.

The opening ceremony of the event will take place on October 10 at 4:00 PM in the courtyard of the National Museum of History of Moldova. The exhibition is more than just an art presentation; it is a window into the souls and emotions of children from southern Israel who have been profoundly affected by recent events. The displayed works were created during art therapy sessions, providing an opportunity for these young artists to express their feelings and experiences.

Each drawing tells its own story, reflecting the thoughts, fears, and hopes of the children. Among the exhibited works is a creation by Aviv Shilo, a talented 10-year-old artist, who produced a drawing entitled "Boom." This piece is accompanied by a powerful and emotional message: "Whatever happens - Israel will prevail." This message of hope resonates deeply, reminding us of human strength and determination, even in the most challenging times.

The exhibition "And They Saw the Voices..." is not just an opportunity to admire the artistic works of these children but also a chance to reflect on the impact that tragic events have on younger generations. Through art, children succeed in expressing their feelings and making their voices heard, reminding us all of the importance of compassion and understanding.

We invite the public to join this moving experience and discover the power of art to unify and heal. This exhibition is a perfect example of how art can transcend barriers and create connections between communities.

The exhibition will remain open until October 20, 2024, providing everyone the opportunity to connect with these powerful stories.