#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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Book Launch: Ion Țurcanu – "Izvodul pătimirilor"

September 12, 2024

On September 12, 2024, the Blue Hall of the National Museum of History of Moldova hosted the launch of "Izvodul pătimirilor" by Ion Țurcanu, recently published by ARC. The book brings to the forefront one of the most distressing periods in the recent history of Bessarabia - the famine of 1946-1947, a devastating episode that profoundly impacted the region's social and demographic structure.

The event gathered a diverse audience, including historians, researchers, and individuals interested in contemporary Moldovan history. The launch was moderated by the author, Ion Țurcanu, who provided a detailed introduction to the book's content and the historical context in which the famine occurred. He spoke about the extensive research and documentation process that underpinned this volume, highlighting the sources and materials used to offer readers a clear understanding of this tragic phenomenon.

The event also featured special guest speakers, renowned historians Igor Cașu, Ion Șișcanu, and Anatol Țăranu, who made brief contributions to the subject, emphasizing the importance of thoroughly researching this period to grasp the full scope of the famine's consequences on the Bessarabian population. They pointed out the significance of Ion Țurcanu's book in complementing the existing historical literature on the topic and stressed the value of such works in preserving the region's historical memory.
The audience actively participated in the discussions, engaging with the author and guests through a Q&A session. This interactive segment was a key part of the event, allowing for a deeper exploration of post-war issues, as well as the economic and social policies that led to the famine in Bessarabia.

The launch of "Izvodul pătimirilor" was organized in partnership with the National Museum of History of Moldova and was a successful event, drawing significant interest from the general public. It provided a unique opportunity for attendees to delve into a challenging yet crucial subject for understanding Bessarabia's past and the social and economic transformations of the post-war period.

Through this event, the National Museum of History of Moldova reaffirmed its commitment to promoting high-quality historical research and supporting academic debates on major topics concerning the history and culture of the Republic of Moldova.

#Exhibit of the Month

Clay Vessel discovered in Speia Village, Dubăsari District

Book Launch: Ion Țurcanu – "Izvodul pătimirilor"

September 12, 2024

#Exhibit of the Month