An estimated 3,500-year-old jar, prized for its “impressive” intact condition and large size, was recently smashed to pieces in an archaeological find. museum in Israel after being inspected by a child.
The ancient jar, which dates to the Middle Bronze Age between 2200 and 1500 BCE, accidentally fell while on display at the University of Haifa’s Hecht Museum, the museum’s general director, Dr. Inbal Rivlin, said in a statement.
“It dates back to before the time of King David and King Solomon and is characteristic of the Canaan region,” Rivlin said of the artifact, noting that the “impressive find” was used to transport supplies such as wine and olive oil. “Similar jars have been found in archaeological excavations, but most were broken or incomplete.”
The pot was displayed at the museum’s entrance, among other places, and was not protected by glass. Rivlin explained that the museum believes there is a “special charm” in being able to view the objects without obstacles.
The boy’s father, Alex, told the BBC that his 4-year-old son was “curious about what was inside” and “pulled lightly on the jar,” causing it to fall. (The father was identified in the report only by his first name.)
When he saw his son standing next to the pieces, he said he was shocked and immediately thought “it wasn’t my kid who did it.” He then comforted his son and spoke to a security guard about the incident.
The museum said it had already contacted a conservation specialist to repair the pot and that the child and his family had been encouraged to return to the museum to view the pot after it had been repaired, in order to “enhance” their previous experience.
“There are cases where exhibited items are deliberately damaged, and such cases are treated with great seriousness, including involving the police. However, that was not the case here,” Rivlin said in her statement.
She said the damage will also be used as a learning opportunity, with plans to document the restoration work for the public to see.
