A rare 3,500-year-old jar was accidentally smashed by a four-year-old boy during a visit to the Hecht Museum in Haifa, Israel. The jar, dating back to the Bronze Age (2200-1500 BC), had been displayed near the museum’s entrance without protective glass, as the museum believes in showcasing artifacts “without obstructions” to enhance their charm.
The boy’s father, Alex, explained that his son, curious about the jar’s contents, tugged on it slightly, causing it to fall and shatter. Initially in shock, Alex said he couldn’t believe his son was responsible but quickly calmed him and informed security. The museum, recognizing the incident as an accident, invited the family back for a guided tour.
Despite the mishap, the museum intends to maintain its practice of displaying items without barriers. The jar, once used for storing supplies like wine and olive oil in the Canaan region, will be restored by conservation experts and returned to its place. Though the family feels relieved that it will be repaired, Alex acknowledged that it will never quite be the same. The Hecht Museum remains committed to providing an immersive experience, displaying rare artifacts in their most authentic form.
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