#Exhibit of the Month

This clay vessel was discovered in 1982 by archaeologist V. Sorochin during excavations of a burial mound (no. 1) located in the village of Speia, Dubăsari District. It originates from grave no. 5 and is dated to the 4th millennium BC, belonging to the Usatovo culture.
The vessel was found in a child's grave. The burial pit had an oval shape, and the deceased was laid in a crouched position (similar to the fetal posture), on the left side. A total of five vessels were uncovered in this grave: three near the back, one at the feet, and one in the pelvic area.
The cultural attribution of this funerary complex was determined based on the burial rite and grave goods. This culture is characterized by the specific construction of the burial pit, as well as the positioning and orientation of the deceased toward the east and northeast.

The vessel is shaped from clay mixed with finely crushed shell. Its walls curve gradually toward the top, with the widest diameter at the shoulder area. It has a short neck, a slightly flared rim, and a flat base. The surface is carefully polished, in some areas to a lustrous finish. The interior is reddish-brown, while the exterior is yellowish-brown with gray spots. The rim features groups of perforations, three of which are preserved in their original state. The diameter of the holes is 0.35 cm. The space between the groups of perforations is decorated with cord impressions. The transition from the neck to the shoulder is adorned with three horizontal lines made with cord, from which, in five places, three vertical lines descend, each 5 cm long, executed using the same technique. At the time of discovery, these lines were filled with a white paste. The space between the groups of lines is decorated at the top with short vertical lines (0.5 cm long), and in the center with a meander ornament made of two parallel lines impressed with cord. The base of the vessel retains the imprint of a textile.
Vessel dimensions: Height: 22 cm; Rim diameter: 15.7 cm; Maximum diameter: 22 cm; Base diameter: 10 cm.

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Exhibitions

"Royal Echoes from the Interwar Period – Queen Marie and Romanian Chișinău"

March 27 – April 27, 2025

The exhibition "Royal Echoes from the Interwar Period – Queen Marie and Romanian Chișinău" unveils the profound and fascinating influence of Queen Marie on Romania's cultural heritage and identity. Queen Marie was a multifaceted and complex personality: a talented writer, passionate artist, promoter of the Art Nouveau style, and a true symbol of national unity.

Dedicated to the 150th anniversary of Queen Marie’s birth, the exhibition delves into the many facets of her personality. The queen was not only a symbol of diplomacy and interwar elegance but also a style icon, art enthusiast, and cultural heritage advocate. Her role in strengthening national unity and supporting Bessarabia during the interwar period is an essential aspect showcased in this exhibition.

Visitors will have the chance to admire rare books authored by Queen Marie, collectible items, jewelry, period clothing, photographs, documents, and representative artistic works.

The exhibition highlights the queen’s contribution to promoting an authentic national style, her influences on fashion and art, and her literary and artistic activities.

Some of the standout pieces on display include Queen Marie's first-edition books, including autographed copies, her monogrammed cigarette case and pencil, as well as portraits and objects reflecting her passion for art and design. The exhibition also emphasizes Queen Marie’s role as a promoter of an Art Nouveau style with local influences—a unique fusion of Celtic, Byzantine, and traditional Romanian elements.

Organized by the Heritage 21 Foundation, National Museum of History of Moldova, National Institute of Heritage in Romania, National Association of Young Historians in Moldova, and the Institute of Cultural Heritage in Chișinău, the public is invited to explore this chapter of history that links Queen Marie to interwar Chișinău and the region's cultural identity. The event also highlights her contribution to national unity and the recognition of Romanian cultural values.