The exhibit of the month for November is a rare glass goblet from the Sântana de Mureș-Chernyakhov cemetery, discovered in Tigheci. Dated to the second half of the 4th century AD, this remarkable artifact demonstrates the craftsmanship of the time, made from translucent greenish glass with a truncated cone shape and intricate geometric decoration. The goblet features three rows of hexagonal facets, framed by incised lines, and a row of elongated ovals under the rim, characteristics which classify it within Series VII A, according to E. Straume's classification. These ornamental traits hint at artistic influences from various regions and indicate the spread of technologies and ideas within the Sântana de Mureș-Chernyakhov culture.
Archaeological Context of the Discovery
The Sântana de Mureș-Chernyakhov cemetery at Tigheci is located in a historically complex area, positioned on the northwest slope of the Tigheci River, at the "La Lutărie" point. First identified in the 1980s following unauthorized clay extraction, the cemetery has suffered considerable damage, leading to the loss of valuable artifacts and the destruction of graves. Among the objects recovered by Mr. Ion Pușcașu, founder of the Museum of History and Ethnography in Tigheci, are wheel-thrown ceramic items reflecting the traditions and techniques of communities during the Migration Period.
The site was first archaeologically investigated in 1990, when a complete inhumation grave was found, though lacking any inventory. Subsequent surveys in 2013 and 2015 by the National Archaeological Agency revealed ongoing erosion damaging the cemetery, necessitating a rescue excavation in 2017. This campaign documented and investigated five graves from the Sântana de Mureș-Chernyakhov culture, including the skeletal remains of a male individual estimated to have been 40 to 45 years old at the time of death, offering additional insights into the demographic structure of this community.
Cultural Significance and Comparisons
The hexagonally faceted glass goblet is among the most valuable artifacts from the Tigheci cemetery. Similar goblets are characteristic of the Sântana de Mureș-Chernyakhov culture and have been found in notable sites such as Târgșor and Bârlad-Valea Seacă (Romania) and Gavrilovka, Ranjevoe (Ukraine), reflecting the cultural and trade connections of this community with other centers of influence in Late Antiquity. Ancient texts and cultural parallels suggest a complex interaction zone with Hellenistic and Roman influences, reflected in luxury goods production such as this glass goblet.
New data on Alexander Sturdza from Odessa archives (two unpublished letters of the middle of 19th century)
Tyragetia, serie nouă, vol. V [XX], nr. 2, Istorie. Muzeologie
In scientific circles it has been observed in recent years a special interest in the personality of Alexander Sturdza (1791-1854), unjustly forgotten by historians and better known by philologists as a contemporary of Alexander Pushkin. Alexander Sturdza’s activities have left deep marks on history and culture of many nations. And yet, his activities in the Principality of Moldova remained almost unknown to the Russian public.
Evidences to be discussed are two unpublished letters (in French and Russian) from the archives of Odessa, which reflect the Alexander Sturdza’s relations with the Socola Seminary (Iași). We are talking about the correspondence of Gospodar Mihail Sturdza with his cousin Alexander, who was invited to Iasi to be offered the honorary post of warden of the Socola Seminary. It is possible that this offer was made by the Iasi gospodar, who had been known for his pro-Russian attitudes, at the suggestion of officials from St. Petersburg. Seminarians from Socola continued their studies at the Kiev Theological Academy.
In the first letter dated June 15, 1843 Alexander Sturdza expresses gratitude for the honor, but proposes that the function of warden of the Socola Seminary will be given to Alexander Bals, citing the fact that he does not live in Iasi permanently.
The second letter of March 28, 1847 is addressed by Alexander Sturdza to Karl Nesselrode, Foreign Minister of the Russian Empire. The latter was not only an imperial chancellor, but a friend having the same ideas as Alexander Sturdza. They both sincerely shared an unshakeable faith in the solid foundation of the Holy Alliance. Undoubtedly, the sources in question remain open to critical approach. It is also true that they raise new questions, which remain unanswered. But, certainly, they will contribute to better knowledge and / or understanding of the contribution of Alexander Sturdza to the history of Romanians.
Александр Пономарёв
The Wallachian family of Corbea (Korbe) in Ukraine-Hetmanate in the 18th century
Tyragetia, serie nouă, vol. XIV [XXIX], nr. 2, Istorie. Muzeologie
Александр Пономарёв
Biography of Kutuzov in the light of an unknown 1769 document
Tyragetia, serie nouă, vol. XVI [XXXI], nr. 2, Istorie. Muzeologie
The exhibit of the month for November is a rare glass goblet from the Sântana de Mureș-Chernyakhov cemetery, discovered in Tigheci. Dated to the second half of the 4th century AD, this remarkable artifact demonstrates the craftsmanship of the time, made from translucent greenish glass with a truncated cone shape and intricate geometric decoration....
The National Museum of History of Moldova takes place among the most significant museum institutions of the Republic of Moldova, in terms of both its collection and scientific reputation.
The National Museum of History of Moldova takes place among the most significant museum institutions of the Republic of Moldova, in terms of both its collection and scientific reputation.
The National Museum of History of Moldova takes place among the most significant museum institutions of the Republic of Moldova, in terms of both its collection and scientific reputation.
31 August 1989 St., 121 A, MD 2012, Chisinau, Republic of Moldova
