#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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The Artisanal Exhibition “Craftsmanship as Art” within the International Event “Meeting of Italian Creators in the Republic of Moldova”

September 11, 2025

On September 11, 2025, the Blue Hall of the National Museum of History of Moldova hosted, for a few hours only, the artisanal exhibition Craftsmanship as Art-a brief yet memorable glimpse into the refined world of Italian luxury craftsmanship. The event offered visitors a curated selection of exceptional creations, handcrafted by renowned Italian artisans from ateliers such as Dalcuore, Formosa, Paolo Scafora, Gala Gloves, Luca Avitabile, Kiton, and others.

The exhibition was organized as part of the international program Meeting of Italian Creators in the Republic of Moldova, under the patronage of the Embassy of the Republic of Moldova in Italy, the Ministry of Culture, and the Municipality of Naples. Attendees had the opportunity to admire garments, accessories, perfumes, and artisanal art objects that reflect excellence, artistic precision, and a deep respect for tradition.

The inaugural moment was marked by the presence of distinguished officials and guests of honor, including: Alexandru Cornițel - founder of Sandro Livv, Mr. Sergiu Prodan - Minister of Culture, H.E. Giuseppe Maria Perricone - Ambassador of the Italian Republic, H.E. Oleg Nica - Ambassador of the Republic of Moldova to Italy, and Mr. Mihai Mîțu - Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and European Integration. The symbolic ribbon-cutting by the Ambassador of Italy officially opened this exclusive presentation.

The exhibition followed the conference Italian Artisans in the Digital Age, held at the Technical University of Moldova. Together, these two events formed a unique intercultural bridge between Italy and the Republic of Moldova, celebrating creativity, artistic dialogue, and openness to international collaboration-especially in a context where Italy has long become a second home for thousands of Moldovan citizens.