In what can be described as a nightmare for parents, a four-year-old boy ended up breaking an ancient jar during his trip to a museum in Israel. The “rare” artefact, said to be around 3,500 years old, was put on display right near the museum’s entrance without a glass case. According to a BBC report, the boy’s unintentional action made the jar fall and break into pieces. The incident took place at the Hecht Museum in Haifa, Israel. The boy visited the museum with his father, Alex, and his mother.
The jar is said to have dated back to the Bronze Age and was kept in an intact state for visitors without the case. The museum believes there is a “special charm” in showing such historic finds “without obstructions.” However, when the boy “pulled the jar slightly” to see what was inside, it fell to the ground. Alex shared being “shocked” after seeing his son next to the smashed jar and even thought that it wasn’t his fault.
4-year-old museum visitor accidentally smashes Bronze Age jar —which had survived intact at least 3,500 yearsThe Hecht Museum in Haifa remained understanding about the accidentand even invited the young boy and his family back for a guided tour. pic.twitter.com/CPRLIZSfAf— WillowWish (@tarunmittal56) August 29, 2024
After speaking to the security guard, he got to know the entire truth, Alex told the outlet. While institutions are usually eligible to levy fines and seek compensation for such damages, Hecht Museum instead invited the boy and his family for another tour a few days later.
“There are instances where display items are intentionally damaged, and such cases are treated with great severity, including involving the police. In this case, however, this was not the situation. The jar was accidentally damaged by a young child visiting the museum, and the response will be accordingly,” said Lihi Laszlo from the museum.
A specialist has also been appointed to restore the jar, and it will be reinstalled back in its spot “in a short time.” The museum’s head, Inbal Rivlin, spoke to Israeli news outlet Ynet and appealed, “The museum is not a mausoleum but a living place, open to families and accessible. We are appealing to parents: Don’t be afraid. Things like this happen. We will fix it and put it back.”
She also explained that the museum specifically has signs that indicate which items can or cannot be touched. In the meantime, the ancient jar was supposedly from the time of Biblical King David and King Solomon. It was used to carry liquids like wine or olive oil.
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