#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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Events Archive

Series of Activities: "Immersion in the Past"

November 2-30, 2024

The National Museum of History of Moldova, in partnership with the Association of Historical Reenactment Clubs "Bastion," organized a series of educational and interactive events throughout November, dedicated to medieval daily life and traditions. These activities aimed to provide visitors with an engaging and educational experience, bringing the Middle Ages to life.

On November 2, the lesson "The Medieval Man" introduced participants to the customs and social structure of the medieval period. The event included a mini-exhibition of medieval artifacts, such as household tools, military equipment, and clothing accessories, offering visitors insights into daily life and the social class distinctions of the era.

On November 9, participants explored medieval historical games during a workshop. These games, including Țintarul and The Fox and the Geese, were used both as entertainment and educational tools. They played a key role in developing critical thinking skills and strengthening social bonds within medieval communities.

Another highlight was the activity titled "The Armor of the Medieval Knight," which allowed visitors to learn about the military equipment of the period. Participants had the chance to try on replica armor and practice archery skills, gaining a deeper appreciation for medieval combat techniques.

On November 23, the workshop "Medieval Braiding Techniques" taught participants the traditional craft of three-finger braiding, a skill widely used in the Middle Ages and still relevant today. Passed down through generations, this craft exemplifies the continuity of traditions and their significance in understanding both tangible and intangible cultural heritage.

The series concluded on November 30 with the final lesson, "What is Historical Reconstruction?" This session provided a comprehensive overview of historical reenactment as a method for recreating and understanding historical realities. The lesson featured distinguished figures in the field:

• Oleg Sergheev, Vice President of the Historical Fencing Club "Spada Moldovei"
• Ruslan Sandu, Leader of the Historical Archery Club "Tevtar"
• Denis Pogrebnoi, President of the Association of Historical Reenactment Clubs of Moldova "Bastion" and Leader of the Club "Hvit Falk"
• Valeria Magrițchi, Representative of "Spada Moldovei" and Archer at "Tevtar."

The activities showcased the effectiveness of an interdisciplinary approach to promoting cultural heritage, blending historical education with interactive experiences. They emphasized the importance of historical reconstruction as both a research method and a way to popularize traditions, fostering a deeper understanding of the social and cultural context of the Middle Ages.

#Exhibit of the Month

Clay Vessel discovered in Speia Village, Dubăsari District

Series of Activities: "Immersion in the Past"

November 2-30, 2024

#Exhibit of the Month