A 4-year-old accidentally knocked over and shattered a 3,500-year-old Bronze Age jar at the Hecht Museum in Israel. The jar, dated from 2200-1500 B.C.E., was used for storing olive oil and wine in the ancient Canaan region. Similar jars have been found in pieces, making this intact jar rare and significant. The child’s father explained that his son was curious and accidentally tipped the jar, shattering it. The museum clarified that despite the accident, no malicious intent was involved, in contrast to intentional damage cases that involve police. The museum’s general director invited the family to see the restored jar, which is being repaired by a conservationist from the University of Haifa. The museum values public access to archaeological artifacts and will continue displaying items without barriers despite the broken jar. The family has accepted the invitation to return to the museum and see the restored jar. The child’s actions were accidental, and the museum is handling the situation with understanding and grace. Ultimately, the museum aims to preserve and share ancient artifacts with the public, including the repaired Bronze Age jar.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com
