34 / a region of treasures 62 / Feel Pirosmani MUSEUM 08 / Building the future on the vibrant past 42 / A Mini-Model of N1 . June, 2014 12 / Roots of the Georgian National Museum APRIL 7-18, 2014 REGION In 2013, the renovated Museum of History and Ethnology of has opened its doors to the public. Since 2008, with support from international foundations and organizations, several large-scale projects have been carried out.

62 / Art

[email protected] Pirosmani’s art is the bridge that connects medieval Georgian painting with the art of the 20th century.

The Global Museum Leaders Colloquium The Global Museum Leaders Colloquium provides a (GMLC), a two-week forum created and hosted by The 360-degree view of current museum practices worldwide. It is Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, is designed a laboratory for developing new, practical approaches to com- 54 / Research to stimulate and broaden international dialogue on mon challenges in museum leadership. By providing a forum for In 2013, with UNESCO's support, the museum management and collections care among di- open exchange, it fosters collaboration among the participating Georgian National Museum carried out a rectors from art institutions across the globe. The inau- institutions and countries, giving rise to an influential network of project entitled "Retracing Lost Technologies gural Colloquium brought together 14 directors from directors who are connected to the Metropolitan Museum of Art museums in Asia, Africa, , and Latin America. and to each other as alumni of the GMLC. – Cloisonné Enamel", with the goal of restoring the lost medieval technology of

MUSEUM cloisonné enamel. participating Countries

CONTENTS 38 / Region 12 / Roots of the Georgian The architectural project of the renovated Netherlands building of the National Museum Samtskhe-Jvakheti Museum of History was Poland winner of the International competition USA 18 / Remembering Georgia “Architectural Award 2012” in the Japan Nomination of Restoration / Reconstruction.

Mexico China 24 / Keeping the Past – Facing the Future

Afghanistan Singapore 28 / Eminent Director Peru Thailand of the Metropolitan Museum of Art 64 / Art India As an artist of the era of and Brazil 30 / Hermann Parzinger : Leader of the Abstract art, David Kakabadze had a Museum Field in sharpened sense of time and space and Argentina South Africa translated his holistic perception of visible 32 / The Mystery of the Sakdrisi Mines reality into corresponding imagery. 42 / A Mini-Model of Georgia "Since its inception, the Met has been a museum that has embraced an 46 / Impressed by Georgia 34 / The history of the Svaneti Museum of international perspective and sought to open its visitors' eyes to the The Georgian National Mu- seum (GNM) was represented at History and Ethnography goes back almost world. And like any great museum, the Met is a place where people come 50 / Drown to Georgia a century. Its establishment is linked to the together to understand different points of view. It is with this in mind the Colloquium by its General Di- rector, Prof. Dr. David Lordkipan- that we welcome this distinguished group of museum leaders from 14 founders of humanities in Georgia, as well as idze. The GNM was invited as the 52 / History Told Through Treasure countries on five continents for the launch of our global museum leader- to local figures who had the vision to create successor of a long museographic a museum to protect the region's cultural ship program. Ideally, this exchange of ideas and expertise will generate tradition in Georgia, and as a 58 / From Excavation to Exhibition Halls collaborative thinking that will prove beneficial not only to the partici- leader of innovative cultural insti- heritage. pating institutions but to museums on a much broader scale." – Thomas tutions in the region. 78 / The Georgian Missions to Kuwait P. Campbell, Director and CEO of The Metropolitan Museum of Art. LITHUANIA BELORUSIA UKRAINE

04 SWEDEN

HOLAND

GREAT International BRITAIN Exhibitions Archaeology

USA Colchian Gold Antikensammlung, Altes Museum, Staatliche Museen zu Berlin (The State Museums of Berlin), Berlin, Germany 15 March – 3 June 2007

Musée des Arts Asiatiques (Museum of Asian Art), Nice, France GERMANY 16 June – 2 September 2007

Musée de la Monnaie (Currency Museum), , France 11 September – 7 November 2007 SPAIN Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, Smithsonian Institution, Washington D.C., USA GREECE 1 December 2007 – 24 February 2008

Institute for the Study of the Ancient World, New York University, New York, USA 12 March – 1 June 2008 ITALY

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, USA 21 June – 1 September 2008

Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge, UK Pirosmani 2 October 2008 – 4 January 2009 National Art Museum of Ukraine, , Ukraine Benaki Museum, Athens, Greece 5 April – 14 June 2006 20 January – 6 April 2009 National Art Museum of the Republic of Belarus, , Belarus Getty Villa, Los Angeles, USA 10 June – 27 August 2008 16 July – 5 October 2009 National Art Gallery, , Lithuania Museum of Mediterranean and Near Eastern Antiquities, Stockholm, Sweden 31 December 2008 – 2 May 2009 Georgian National Museum participated in the following international exhibitions: 20 November 2009 – 14 February 2010 Pera Museum, , Turkey „Byzantium and Islam: Age of Transition“, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, „Vassily Kandinsky“, Centre Pompidou, Paris, France Drents Museum Assen, Assen, Netherlands 1 August – 7 October 2007 New York, USA 8 April – 10 August 2009 6 March – 15 August 2010 14 March – 8 July 2012 (An item from the Georgian National Museum Shalva Zervos Museum, Vézelay, France Archaeological Museum of Seville, Seville, Spain Amiranashvili Museum of Fine Arts was exhibited) „Kandinsky“, retrospective of Vassily Kandinsy‘s works, Solomon 22 September – 7 November 2008 5 May – 20 June 2010 R. Guggenheim Museum, New York, USA „Vinum Nostrum – Art, Science and Myths of Wine in Ancient Mediterranean 18 September 2009 – 13 January 2010 Dordrechts Museum, Dordrecht, Netherlands Il Museo dei Fori Imperiali (Museum of Imperial Forums), Rome, Italy Cultures“, Palazzo Pitti Museum of Art, Florence, Italy 6 May – 30 September 2012 17 November 2011 – 5 February 2012 19 July 2010 – 15 May 2011 „Expressionismus & Expressionismi: Berlin-Munich 1905-1920. Der Blaue Reiter vs Brücke“, Pinacothèque de Paris, Paris, France „Breaking the Rules“, exhibition of European Avant Garde, British Library, 11 October 2011 – 11 March 2012 London, UK 8 November 2007 – 30 March 2008 „Court and Craft in Medieval Mosul. A Masterpiece of Arab Metalwork“, Discoveries (Works by Pirosmani and Irakli Gamrekeli were exhibited) Courtauld Gallery, London, UK 20 February – 18 May 2014 „Roots of Humankind“, Rheinisches Landesmuseum Bonn, Bonn, Germany Famous Georgian Artists of the 20th Century „Beyond Babylon – Art, Trade, and Diplomacy in the Second Millennium 8 July – 11 November 2006 B.C.“, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, USA „Paris-Montparnasse/Tbilissi“, Musée du Montparnasse, Paris, France 18 November 2008 – 15 March 2009 (Archaeological artifacts from the 26 June – 30 August 2008 „The Face of Human Evolution“, Naturalis (National Museum of Natural Georgian National Museum were exhibited) History), Leiden, Netherlands 8 December 2009 – 28 February 2010

Permanent exhibition on human evolution (Replicas from the Georgian National Museum are on display), National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, Washington D.C., USA Since 17 March 2010 Photo-Exhibitions Upcoming „Homo Sapiens, Long History of Human Evolution“, Palazzo delle Esposizioni, „Photostudio Ermakov – Photographer, Collector and Entrepreneur“, Museum Europäischer Kulturen, Staatliche Museen zu Berlin (Museum of the Rome, Italy Netherlands Fotomuseum, Rotterdam, Netherlands European Cultures, State Museums of Berlin), Berlin, Germany 11 November 2011 – 12 February 2012 14 June – 31 August 2014 1 August – 5 October 2014

GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM 5 06

he year 2014 has special meaning for Georgia and for the We are pleased to present the first English-language issue of Georgian National Museum. For our country it is unique Museum, the Georgian National Museum’s magazine. We de- Tbecause of the signing of the EU-Georgia Association dicate this issue to the signing of the EU-Georgia Association Agreement that will mark the beginning of a new phase in Ge- Agreement and the tenth anniversary of the Georgian Natio- orgian history and in our relations with the European Union. nal Museum. We introduce our readers to many activities and projects which – along with scientific research and exhibitions For our institution this year is special because we celebrate the – are being carried out in the educational field. We would like tenth anniversary of the Georgian National Museum, created our readers to become familiar with the centuries-old history when all major museums of Georgia were brought together, and culture of Georgia, as well as the history of our museum. with the National Gallery and two research centers. Thus we are honored to present interviews with the leaders of our partner institutions and of joint international projects. It is symbolic that the Twinning Project implemented by the Georgian National Museum and the Prussian Cultural Herita- The Georgian National Museum continues to develop its insti- ge Foundation / State Museums of Berlin for the institutional tutional traditions, beginning with the foundation of the first development of our museum – supported by the European museum in Georgia in the 19th century. At the same time we Union – was the first European twinning project in the cultural are actively involved in new processes in the cultural field as we field. Through close collaboration between these institutions become part of a world-wide museum network. the Georgian National Museum has been transformed into a modern, innovative, creative and user-friendly institution that is well integrated into the urban and social fabric.

Visit the Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography from where you can discover the amazing landscapes of and its Svanetian towers. You will find newly installed exhibitions and unique exhibits, enjoy a coffee in the Museum’s café, and learn about the museum’s collections using modern computer technologies – or you can just rest and enjoy the experience as you connect to the rest of the world through the Museum’s free wifi from the highest settlement of Europe! Editor in Chief: Editorial Board: Ekaterina Gamkrelidze, Natia Khuluzauri, Mikheil Tsereteli, Merab Mikeladze Photographer: Mirian Kiladze, Malkhaz Machavariani, Nino Tabutsadze, Guram Tsibakhashvili, Fernando Javier Urquijo, Bryan Whitney The Museum’s shop offers a wide choice of books and souvenirs, including catalogues and other publications, modern jewelry, English Language Editor: Mary Ellen Chatwin as well as unique reproductions of selected museum objects. Translator: Maia Nikolaishvili Designer: Tornike Lordkipanidze Admission: The café and shop are open every day except Monday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. Front cover: Exhibition hall of the National Gallery shot by Bryan Whitney Back cover: Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography shot by Nino Tabutsadze Address: Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography, N7 Avtandil Ioseliani Street, Mestia, 3200 Georgia Printing House: CEZANNE, N140 Tsereteli Avenue, , 0119, Georgia. Tel.: +995 322 357 002

We express our gratitude to JTI Company for their support in publishing this journal.

ISSN 2298-0318

facebook.com/GNMuseum museum.ge 08 petuated by subsequent anatomists such science are unique instruments for spre- vied for the honor of having sheltered the as Professor William Lawrence who again ading values and are strong tools for di- oldest humans of the continent, which referred to the “Caucasian race” (1823, Lec- plomacy. dates back only 800,000 years.” tures to the Royal College of Surgeons in Using archaeological discoveries for na- Dmanisi is a village about 85 kilome- London): “The name of this variety is deri- tionalistic purposes, however, is nothing ters southwest of Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, ved from Mount Caucasus because in its new and many countries claim to be “First”, and lies on the ancient Silk Road linking neighborhood, and particularly towards “the Cradle” or “a unique culture”. This so- Europe and Asia. The site is rich in medie- the south, we meet with a very beautiful metimes manifests itself as a form of com- val and Bronze Age artifacts, but it is the race of men, the .” Gradually, for petition, a rivalry to underline a country’s wealth of prehistoric finds that has put the English-speaking scientific world, the importance. A good example is the story it on the scientific map. Before the Dma- European and the “Caucasian races” be- of the “earliest Europeans”. Various coun- nisi discoveries, the prevailing view was came synonymous. Yet for Georgians and tries have claimed this title after finding that when humans left Africa a million other peoples of the region, the identity of what they say are the “earliest” discoveries years ago, they had larger brains and so- being Caucasian carried very different me- of hominids, our biological ancestors. In phisticated stone tools. But Dmanisi has anings. the early 20th century a lower jaw from changed these ideas. The discovery of In response to the signing of the This is why we believe the stories of our Mauer, Germany, near Heidelberg, was Dmanisi’s 1.8 million year-old human fos- EU-Georgia Association Agree- past must be explored and examined, considered the earliest known human in sils has brought the Caucasus region into ment we decided to present the speech of the General Director of so they can become tools for unification Europe until in the 1970s a discovery from sharp focus as an entirely new region for the Georgian National Museum, instead of division. Our main goal is to the French village of Tautevel became the studying the evolution of early Homo. Prof. David Lordkipanidze made ensure that our rich heritage doesn’t only earliest European at 450,000 years old. Few paleoanthropological research pro- in the Council of Europe on the remain in our archives, but helps move Even today, signs for tourists indicate that jects have had such a powerful impact fifth Debate on European Identity us towards new visions for a common fu- Tautevel is “the birthplace of the first Euro- on our thinking about human evolution. on October 10th, 2013. ture. Georgia’s European aspirations are pean”. In the early 1990s discoveries from These discoveries document the first ex- not new. We have been a part of Europe, Ceprano, Italy and Atapuerca, Spain were pansions of humans out of Africa, and in the broadest sense, from prehistory dated back 800,000 years, which in turn demonstrate that their migration was due to the present. Georgia is a multi-ethnic, made them the new “First Europeans”. neither to increased brain size, nor to im- multi-religious society whose history has However, our task should be instead proved technology. Georgia and the Region's been turbulent, but whose thoughts and of creating competitions – to create a In Georgia, the Dmanisi project is culture have benefited from a diverse po- win-win situation for all concerned. Even playing a crucial role in the development pulation and the traditions of many of its though in recent years Georgia has be- of paleoanthropology and of science in European Aspirations: neighbors. come known as the country of the “First general through establishing close links The country is distinguished by magnifi- Europeans” it would be very naïve to con- with international scientific centers and cent landscapes, varied and unique ende- sider 1.8 million-year-old creatures as “Eu- introducing new methods and technolo- Building the Future on a Vibrant Past mic fauna and flora, and five climate zones ropeans”! The Dmanisi discovery is indeed gies to Georgian sciences. Project struc- that range from the humid sub-tropical on of immense importance for science, yet tures bridge scientific interests across David Lordkipanidze the Black Sea to the rural wetlands, high our approach has been to universalize the international borders and have formed a plateau and alpine regions, and even to knowledge of human migration, rather large, active multinational team. We have Searching for identity is a normal evolutionary process for human societies. The formation of a European identity is influenced the semi-desert areas of the southeast. than claim a distinction for being “first”. founded a field school in Dmanisi where, by many factors including geographic, political, cultural, religious, anthropological, technological and many others. The Its rich natural resources have supported However, the imagination of journalists every year, dozens of students from the identification of Europe is also largely conditional – for example, from the point of view of physical geography, Europe and uninterrupted human habitation for thou- was fired with new vigor for rivalry – the United States and Europe are enrolled sands of years. Dmanisi story has been featured worldwi- in training and receive university credits. Asia are parts of a single continent, Eurasia. However, I do not intend to discuss how identity is formed or to propose my own On the territory of the Caucasus seve- de through international media including Hosting students from around the world definition of national or European identity. ral archeological sites have been disco- cover stories in Science magazine, Natio- can significantly break down cultural-lin- vered that are of universal importance nal Geographic, The New York Times and guistic barriers, increase scientific exchan- n my opinion, Europe is a family of could create a foundation for diffusing “heavy” scientific legacy in Georgia’s case for the history of mankind. Archaeologi- many others; a quote from Liberation in ge and provide many opportunities to states unified around common values new and progressive European values was the classification of human races by cal research and the communication of 2000 following a congress in Tautevel generate new cohorts of colleagues and Iand interests. Despite negative or criti- wherever they intersect with principles Johann Fredric Blumenbach in the late 18th many exceptional findings have brou- read: “With these two fossils discovered friends. Progressively this creates extensi- cal comments about the efficiency of the throughout the world. century. This German scientist coined the ght our region into the spotlight of the in Georgia, in Dmanisi, south of the Cau- ve networks of future scientists. Today the European Union, I strongly believe in such The long history of Georgia and the enti- term for a “Caucasian race” based on the world’s scientific community. This has casus the first inhabitants of Europe be- Dmanisi field museum is a rare example value-based networks. Our goal should re Caucasus region could contribute to this physical characteristics of a diplomat he given local scholars the possibility to came a million years older. This has been of how scientists can simultaneously fa- be to create transdisciplinary, pan-Euro- process. The study of history is a powerful knew, the first Ottoman Ambassador to work with international institutions and confirmed, which is not frequent in the cilitate active research underway at a site pean networks at different levels. These tool, and has been used for both positive England, originally from the Caucasus re- to become respected members of that kingdom of paleontology – no one con- and at the same time make the site and alliances well adapted to today's realities and negative ends. Perhaps a somewhat gion. The “science of human races” was per- community. I believe that both art and tests the dates. Until now Spain and Italy its research accessible to the wider public.

GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM 9 Another field of competition between and civilization. Greek or "Hellenic" cultu- changes have occurred, but few have countries has been “Which country is the re has its roots in ancient Near Eastern ci- taken place in our cultural institutions. In “Cradle of Wine”?” Georgia is again in line vilizations, and it emerged after the cam- Georgia’s case, creating the Georgian Na- for this distinction, as it claims to have the paign of Alexander the Great in the East. tional Museum has been a step towards earliest traces of viniculture. The Caucasus The archaeological discoveries show that establishing a strong institution based on occupies a territory within the Near East pre-Christian cultural traditions in wes- our own national and cultural heritage. zone, one of the seven global “Centers of tern Georgia contributed to the process The Georgian National Museum presents Origin” of food plants, where scientists of civilization. internationally significant collections of art believe the origins of agriculture and the After the Greco-Roman period Ge- and dynamic, changing exhibitions that domestication of important grains occur- orgia was subjected to Arab invasions, provide visitors with inspiration and kno- red. The varieties and forms of cultivated however with the progress of the Byzan- wledge of the wonderful world of culture, plants that originated in the wider Cauca- tine Empire, the country built strong arts, sciences and education. Discoveries of sus region have shown that the area was links with European culture. Since Ge- the oldest human existence in Eurasia are indeed an ancient center for the domes- orgia became a Christian country in displayed along with magnificent Medie- tication and diversification of food plant the 4th century, and also developed its val Christian art, stunning gold and silver species. own alphabet, the country could main- jewelry from the ancient land of , I would suggest moving from the tain own identity. Byzantine cultural spectacular modern and contemporary competition of who is “first winemaker” tradition began taking shape through paintings by Georgian artists and master- towards a multidisciplinary research of a merger of this symbiotic culture with pieces that exemplify Oriental, Russian and the history of wine and other cultivated Eastern Christianity, embracing coun- Western European decorative arts. foods. The beginning of agriculture is a tries, including Georgia. Based on Helle- The Georgian National Museum now key period in human history and offers nistic cultural trends, new cultural cen- envisages the introduction of modern Mestia, Georgia - View from the Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography another opportunity for researchers to ters came into being in the bosom of management policies and the establish- develop high-level international inter- Eastern Christianity, with their own na- ment of a uniform administrative system. disciplinary collaboration. This could be tional scripts and cultural traditions in- This initiative will put a coherent mu- – The Ivane Javakhishvili History Mu- with the Prussian Cultural Heritage Foun- synergy of Art and Science is also a strong the occasion to create another model fluenced by East-West civilizations. Here seum mission in place and improve con- seum, located in Samtskhe-Javakheti, dation / The State Museums of Berlin, tool for developing democratic societies. like that created in Dmanisi, bringing lies the uniqueness of Georgian mate- servation standards for preserved collec- a region of multicultural challenges for within the framework of the first EU twin- Academic and artist freedom are key in- together different academic institutions rial and spiritual culture, its attractive- tions. It will strengthen the educational ethnic Armenians and Georgians. The ning program in the cultural field. We con- gredients of this process. and working on public outreach. ness both to the East and to the West. programs centered on the museum's re- new museum tells the story of the region, tinue to work bilaterally, and our coopera- The Caucasus must take its place in a Most have heard the myth of the Greek Due to its geographic location, Georgia sources and contribute to coordinating using the exhibition and educational pro- tion has been developed at the regional world where there is no room for con- Argonauts, but not everyone knows about has long been a natural crossroads for academic and museum activities. The grams to develop common values and, in level with help of Goethe Institute. We flict. It can become a place of unifica- the historic connection with Georgia throu- many powerful cultures. Nevertheless, Georgian National Museum is an impor- particular, strong feelings of tolerance in have created a network of museums in tion, and where different generations gh the myth of Jason and the Golden Fle- the country has preserved its cultural tant regional example of how to trans- the younger generations. former Soviet countries, including Ukrai- build common values. Today archeo- ece. According to the story told by ancient identity, with an unwavering interest in form post-Soviet museums into modern, – The recently opened branch of the ne, Russia, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Belorus- logy has changed its position from the Greek authors, Jason and the Argonauts the Western world. Now that the country innovative, creative and user-friendly National Museum in the Upper Cauca- sia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kirgizstan colonial science it had been over the sailed to Colchis in search of the Golden is putting itself on the world map again, institutions that are well integrated into sus region of Svaneti, in the capital city of and Tajikistan. This will create even more last centuries, to one that advocates for Fleece that hung in a sacred grove of trees, it is our genuine belief that European na- the urban and social fabric. Mestia. The museum houses very precious horizontal cooperation. I believe that the countries to claim and study their own and guarded by a dragon that never slept. tions will be our partners on the way to If there were a public opinion survey collections of medieval icons and manus- tendency of museums in the world will heritage – where peoples can discuss Unearthed gold artifacts from in wes- the West. Our goal is to develop common carried out on priority issues for Geor- cripts. Svaneti is an island with remains of change from brand promotion towards and independently create the vision of tern Georgia connect the history of this land values while maintaining our unique cul- gia, the main response would be “Educa- Byzantine culture, with local peculiarities. new alliances such as those created by their nation’s legacies and identity and to the myth of Jason and the Golden Fleece. tural identity, to encourage diversity and tion”, and if you ask Georgians what the The new museum is linking the local com- the NY Metropolitan Museum of Art that find ways to link these with the rest of Archaeological discoveries provide eviden- tolerance while building bridges with country’s main factors of national identity munity through its collection of treasures, bring together institutions from Europe, the world. ce of an advanced culture in what is today other cultures. are, the answer will be rich cultural history while building trust and dialog. Renova- Latin America, Asia and Africa. The Geor- Why do we need the European Union, western Georgia, showing that the mythical Building academic institutions is crucial and Christian Orthodoxy. Indeed I am sure ted exhibits and storage show respect for gian National Museum should be part of or indeed any other alliance? Without land of Colchis was indeed this region. Many for these processes. We should use scien- that museums have a high potential for religious objects and are both research this global trend. question, this contributes to a better of these treasures confirm that Colchis was a tific disciplines to study the past and to participating in educational and cultural and educational tools. Creating a balance Personally, I am participating in the work world! These alliances promote a respect real country, and was rich in gold. bring new knowledge, but at the same processes and developing a balance be- between science and religious beliefs is an of the European Cultural Parliament’s for human rights and for the environ- They also attest that Georgia’s culture is time we must work on communication tween faith and knowledge. To develop important role for this Museum. pan-European network for artists, a forum ment, along with the preservation of cul- an indispensable part of Western civiliza- and institution building. One of the key is- wider European values in our young peo- The Georgian National Museum is a ho- for regular debate on crucial issues for tural heritage… This can only take place, tion, as the kingdom of Colchis is one of sues today is to find opportunities to esta- ple, including those of diversity and tole- rizontal network of different bodies uni- independent artists, writers, musicians, however, if we develop these values early the main pillars of Georgia’s cultural iden- blish new institutions, especially cultural rance, new exhibits and public education fied under joint values. We are working historians, philosophers, designers, archi- in life – thus I believe that my country, my tity. Most scholars consider classical Greek institutions not only in the Caucasus. Sin- activities are the best tools. Two concrete with different international institutions, tects and other cultural personalities from profession and my institution must parti- culture as the basis of European culture ce the collapse of the many examples include: and are pleased with our cooperation all European countries. I believe that the cipate in this process.

10 GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM 11 12

he educational component is established, such as the Caucasian Mu- inherent to a museum. Creating seum, the Museum of the Society for the Tcollections and protecting and Spreading of Literacy, the Church Mu- scientifically studying artifacts would seum and the "Temple of Glory", which have partially lost their meaning if the was a Museum of Military History. Each collective memory accumulated over the of these was created for different reasons centuries and carried by the items kept – the Museum of the Russian Geographic in a museum remained out of reach for Society, the Caucasian Museum and the the public. Even in pre-Christian times, Museum of Military History were esta- the role of rudimentary museums was blished to promote Russian policies and played by religious temples. values. However, others like the Museu- ms of the Society for the Spreading of Li- Initial Outlines teracy and the Museum of the Georgian The pagan temples and chapels of the Orthodox Church, were created by the Bronze and Iron Ages discovered in Eas- Georgian intellectuals to counterbalance tern Georgia, to which the population Russian values and culture, and to save donated ritual items for centuries, also Georgian national treasures. played the role of treasury. In the Medie- The Geographic Society Museum, ho- val era, however, treasuries were set up at wever, became the first complex scienti- the courts of the Georgian kings and ite- fic and educational institution in the Cau- ms of historical significance such as royal casus, and enriched its collections with jewelry and rare natural artifacts were the contribution of private donations. collected. The royal storehouse in Tbilisi, Significant among the items received by at the court of David the Builder where this museum were ancient bronze figures Vakhtang Gorgasali's armor and weapons of a bellwether and goat heads brought were kept, was an example. Churches and from Tusheti in 1863 – and even a meteo- monasteries had their own treasuries and rite that fell near Stavropol. libraries. However, unlike royal treasuries In the mid-19th century, naturalist and the items and manuscripts kept in spiritu- archaeologist Friedrich Bayern made an al centers were studied closely. important contribution to the develop- Beginning with the 16th century, the ment of museum work in Georgia, crea- term "museum" derived from the An- ting large natural science collections in cient Greek, began to be used in Euro- the Caucasus, which then became the pe when referring to a storage place for foundation for geological, zoological antiquities. For Georgia, it was an era of and botanical collections of Tbilisi mu- declining statehood, which hampered seums. To exhibit his rich collections, in Roots of the Georgian National Museum the development of museums. Only the 1856 Bayern opened a museum of natu- old-style royal salaros remained, safeke- ral sciences in Tbilisi's district of Didube, History > Ekaterina Gamkrelidze, Tamar Babuadze eping important items of natural history which was called "Naturalist Bayern's "Any reasonable person understands easily how great an obligation the Museum will have from now on. For a fundamental, and cultural heritage. Office" then in 1859, Bayern began to th in-depth study of political, material and intellectual history, the broader public – and especially students – need museums In the second half of the 19 century, establish connections with the Caucasus however, several museums opened in branch of the Russian Geographic Socie- where everyone can see the material remains that are the physical expression of the history they read... The Museum of Tbilisi. The first was a museum esta- ty. He had become interested in the Urar- Georgia is a grand establishment. One – it has to portray past and modern culture and, to this end, collect artifacts and other blished as the Caucasus branch of the tian cuneiform inscriptions discovered materials to ensure a comprehensive, scientific study of Georgia. Two – it has a social obligation – to help the public and, Russian Geographic Society in 1852. near Ararat and in Georgia's archaeolo- especially, young students to enhance their knowledge of history. And three – the Museum of Georgia, as the highest-level Following this, similar institutions were gical monuments. It was due to his ex- scientific institution, should be conducting intensive scientific work." “On the main goals of the Museum”, Ivane Javakhishvili, 1935 GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM 13 cavations that Georgia's archaeological from Khevsureti and . In 1868, The Church Museum antiquities became known to scientists the Caucasian Museum was merged with Meantime, in 1888, a "Treasure House all over the world. the Public Library, and two years later, it for Ancient Church Artifacts" had been Three years after the exhibition ope- was moved to a new building with eight established in a building constructed es- ned, the Russian Geographic Society Mu- exhibition halls, constructed by the ar- pecially for this purpose. The main merit seum administration decided to organi- chitect A. Salzman. of the Church Museum, apart from sa- ze its first exhibition of these antiquities, ving threatened Georgian Orthodox tre- which caused great public interest. Ho- The Georgian Museum for asures, was the organization of special wever, it was costly for the Geographic Everyone! expeditions. In 1889, expeditions were Society to keep the Museum open and, In 1885, an "Archaeological" Museum organized to and David Gareja in 1864 the first Georgian museum clo- was established in connection with which meant that important antiquities sed, after only 12 years of existence. the Library of the Society for the Spre- were moved to the Tbilisi-based Church ading of Literacy. Its collections were Museum from these two centers of Or- The Caucasian Museum gradually enlarged by significant ar- thodox Christianity. Other treasures were Yet soon after this another project was chaeological, numismatic and historical collected from the Gelati, Samtavro and submitted to the Viceroy's Chancellery by contributions. In 1907, according to Ilia Sokhumi churches. an ethnographer of German origin, Gustav Chavchavadze's will, all of his property, Ten years later the Church Museum Radde, to establish a Caucasian museum personal belongings and an exceptio- had become a very strong institution, where he could place his own materials nally rich library were bequeathed to with collections rivaling those of the from the Caucasus as well as part of the the Society for the Spreading of Literacy. Caucasian Museum, and a total of 1,359 heritage left unattended after the closure However, the Museum experienced gre- artifacts. However the Church Museum of the Geographic Society's Museum. In at hardships as constant problems of was closed after Soviet rule was establi- 1865, Radde's project was approved and space meant that artifacts were kept in shed in Georgia in the first part of the 20th Radde himself was appointed Director. He different places. The philanthropist Da- century. stated that from that point on, "the Cauca- vid had offered to sponsor sus has become his precious and beautiful the construction of a large Museum, ho- The "Temple of Glory" second motherland." wever he died in 1911. As World War I The idea of establishing a Museum of There was a lack of Georgian items in and global turmoil thwarted any plans Military History, or "Temple of Glory", in the Caucasian Museum, however occa- to build the museum, it also meant the Tbilisi was developed by the Director of sionally the collections were enriched by disappearance of the Society for the the Caucasian Museum, Gustav Radde in significant local ethnographic materials Spreading of Literacy. 1888. Originally to become the "Temple Ethnographic exhibition hall of the Caucasian Museum of Glory" for the , it was built in Alexander's Garden in the center Eventually, the Russian Empire relinqui- Gabashvili as well as Zakaria Paliashvili, were delayed again, and in 1927, hope of Tbilisi. Renowned painters from all over shed the implementation of their goal, Ivane Javakhishvili and Niko Marr. disappeared completely, and all collec- the Empire, including Franz Roubaud, and in 1916, the doors of the "Temple of The Society received permission to tions and the library were taken over by Max Tilke, Ivan Ayvazovsky and others, Glory" closed – never to open again. build a new museum in 1912, although the Museum of Georgia, established in were invited to illustrate the exhibition the Georgian Museum had been establi- connection with the Caucasian Museum. and paint the battle scenes. While items The "Georgian Museum" shed earlier. Of special significance for were being collected for the "Temple of By the late 19th century the Museum of the museum were the two manuscripts The Museum of Georgia Glory" exhibition halls, it was possible to the Society for the Spreading of Literacy donated to its first collection by Ekvtime By establishing the Museum of Geor- organize other exhibitions with the parti- was in its death throes and the Georgian Takaishvili in 1908 – the Book of Laws gia, one of the most important landma- cipation of Georgian artists. Thus, works intellectuals realized that the Church and the Code of Vakhtang VI. In the follo- rks in the scientific study of Georgian by Gigo Gabashvili, Aleksandre Mre- Museum alone would never be able to wing years, in order to enrich their col- history began. In 1919-1920 the Gover- vlishvili, Mose Toidze, Iakob Nikoladze collect, study and promote their national lections, the museum's staff organized nment of the Georgian Republic issued and others were exhibited for the first treasures. Led by Ekvtime Takaishvili, in expeditions, which meant they could or- several important decrees which, for the time in Tbilisi. As a result, the "Temple of 1907 the Georgian Historical and Ethno- ganize two exhibitions in the building of first time, defined the system of Georgian Glory" became central to Tbilisi's cultural graphic Society was established with the the Gymnasium for Noblemen. museums as a national institution. The life in the 1890s, a place where the Tbilisi goal to create a "Georgian Museum and had bequeathed Museum of Georgia became a center of public could see the works of Georgian Library". For this purpose he managed 100,000 rubles for the construction of a supervision and protection of material artists for the first time. The "Temple of to unite illustrious Georgian personali- museum building and his widow added cultural monuments. In April 1920, a Glory" was perceived more of a place de- ties such as , Vazha Psha- 600,000 to this amount – but in vain with Foundation for Purchasing Items of His- dicated to visual arts than an illustration vela, Iakob Gogebashvili, Vasil Barnov the beginning of World War I, plans for torical Significance was established un- Ethnographic exhibition hall of the Caucasian Museum of the Russian Empire's military triumphs. (Barnaveli), David Kldiashvili, Ekaterine an appropriate building for a museum der the Museum of Georgia. During the

14 GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM 15 same period, the periodicals "Sakartve- ment of most of Georgia’s distinguished A physical-chemical restoration la- los Muzeumis Moambe" (Bulletin of the academics and representatives of the boratory was founded in 1932, where Museum of Georgia) and "Sakartvelos public. Although it proved impossible the refurbishment of metal items and Muzeumis Shromebi" (Proceedings of to repatriate all items, as some of them the restoration and conservation of an- the Museum of Georgia) were created. could not be traced, the search and at- cient palimpsests were carried out. The A decree issued on 30 March, 1920 tempts to repatriate them continued for Museum's taxidermy laboratory was by the Constituent Assembly and the a long time. outstanding, not only at the Georgian Government on the establishment of In 1923, the Soviet Government issued level but compared to others in the So- the Georgian National Art Gallery was an official decree, according to which the viet Union. In May 1933, scientific divi- significant, as it founded Georgia's Mu- reorganization of the museums had to sions were established in almost every seum of Art. Funds were also allocated be conducted, yet the process was never department, with the participation of all for the construction of a building for the completed. As a result, Georgia’s museu- the Georgian scholarly elite. Thanks to Museum of Georgia, although this was ms decayed into terrible condition, some the scientists working at the Museum, never implemented. Because of the cha- even without buildings. The Republic's the institution received international re- otic political situation that took over the Government closed them all, and be- cognition – yet because of limited fun- country, the Museum ceased its work tween 1928 and 1931, all of the museum ding, exhibitions could not be organized in accordance with an order issued on collections of the Republic were placed simultaneously for all departments. In 20 February, 1921. However, several in the Museum of Georgia. 1928, a zoological exhibition was orga- months later the process of reviving the In 1929, the construction of a mu- nized and remained open until 1972. Museum of Georgia began again, albeit seum building in Tbilisi was comple- Between 1931 and 1937, the halls offe- with difficulty. During this troubled pe- ted, so that after a 30-year involuntary red ethnographic exhibits of 18th-19th riod, an Academic Council supervised hiatus the Museum finally regained century Georgian garments and crafts the work of the Museum, yet in 1921 all its main function – organizing exhi- from Khevsureti and Svaneti; the so-cal- the Museum’s relations and ties with fo- bitions. In 1931, Ivane Javakhishvili led "vault" of the Department of Manus- reign scientific institutions were termi- began working in the Museum and in cripts; Georgian mineral resources; and Caucasian Museum nated, and museum staff was frequently 1937 he was appointed Head of the an exhibition displaying material culture targeted by Soviet Government repres- History Department that he had been from the era of . The sto- tion of ancient Georgian works of art , and collections were returned to the Museum until the 4th century. In 1963-1981, there sions. earnestly trying to establish since rage facilities of the Museum's Library a catalogue was published in German. From only in 1943. On 11 April 1945, some Ge- was an exhibition of Georgian material In early 1922, the Government raised 1934. With the Museum staff he devi- were becoming richer every year and by Germany, the exhibition traveled to Vienna. orgian treasures that had been moved to culture from the 4th to the 13th centuries. the issue of repatriating Georgian anti- sed projects and took on the training 1932 there were 300,000 books in the However, upon an order of the Soviet Go- Paris returned to Tbilisi. The crates were In 1967 an exhibition entitled “The Era of quities kept in the Russian museums and of young scholars, intensifying work Museum Library. vernment on 25 May, 1938, the Museum of brought from the airport to the Museum the Bourgeoisie” completed the series on storage facilities. The process of repatria- on exhibitions, recording collections Political events and repressions that Georgia consultant and world-renowned of Georgia, and under the supervision of Georgian material history. So, the visitors tion began a year later, with the involve- and other tasks. unfolded at the end of the 1930s left an scholar Grigol Tsereteli was arrested. He died academician Simon Janashia, a govern- could follow the uninterrupted history appalling mark on the life of the Museum of in prison. One year earlier, another great ment commission was established, whi- of Georgia from ancient times until the Georgia and its scientists. In October 1933, scholar, folklorist Vakhtang Kotetishvili had ch spent almost two years recording and Medieval Period and see the thematic Giorgi Mirotadze became the Director of been executed. Then, a Government Order checking the items. ethnographic exhibitions and treasure the Museum, and then lost his life during No 2, declared that photos of "enemies of After Janashia’s death in 1947, the Mu- exhibitions. the repressions. Even so, the Museum's the people" and "Trotskyite saboteurs" were seum was named after him. During the period of Soviet rule and institutional development continued, and to be removed from the Museum's photo la- In the 1950s, the Archaeology Depart- since that time, the Museum has re- during this time large-scale archaeological boratory and handed over to the NKVD. As ment was created as a separate division. mained Georgia’s main institution for excavations began in Mtskheta, Samta- a result of these measures many documents The number of archaeological expedi- science and exhibitions and a guarantor vro and Armaziskhevi, Bolnisi and ancient and remarkable materials disappeared from tions increased and collections became for the protection of Georgian national Dmanisi settlements, Gudarekhi and other Georgia’s archives. richer. In 1957, a vault was built for the identity. Since 2004, after the establish- sites. The Museum of Georgia was given When World War II began in 1941 the most precious items illustrating the his- ment of the Georgian National Museum, the responsibility to process all of the dis- Museum found itself threatened. In 1942, tory of the development of Georgian the Simon Janashia Museum of Georgia coveries. Germans were succeeding on battlefiel- goldsmithery, and then in 1960 a lan- became its key component. In 1926-1930, relations were re-establi- ds and their troops approached the Cau- dmark archaeological exhibition broke shed with foreign scientific centers. In 1929, casus. This led to the implementation of the mold in Georgian exhibition work. The article is based on G. Chkhaidze's mono- the Museum broadened the scope of its special measures at the Museum. The Through a vast array of archaeological graph "The State Museum of Georgia", Tbilisi, exhibitions abroad, and in June-October collections were placed in evacuation discoveries, visitors could discover a 2003; further reference: L. Chilashvili's article 1930, Germany's cities of Berlin, Cologne, crates and evacuation item lists made, complete picture of the history of Geor- "Looking Back 150 Years", Museum Anniversary Zoological exhibition hall of the Caucasian Museum Nuremberg and Munich hosted an exhibi- and removed to unknown sites. These gian material culture from the Stone Age Bulletin, 2002, No 44.

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Remembering Ekvtime Takaishvili

Main Theme > Merab Mikeladze He was blessed with talent, an outstanding love for his homeland and high morals. Throughout his lifetime his unique love for his country and his brilliant mind were put to use to study and safeguard Georgia’s national treasures. Ekvtime Tkaisivili carried out his work tirelessly, dedicated to preserving his country’s valuable cultural heritage. The value of his many initiatives resulted in a greater understanding of the origin and history of the nation of Georgia and its multi-ethnic society.

GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM 19 kvtime Takaishvili was born on Ja- arn more about the world around him. When Takaishvili returned to Georgia in These included sites such as the former nuary 3, 1863 in Likhauri, a small When he was seven, Ekvtime attended 1887, equipped with his understanding settlements of Vani, burial grounds in Evillage in the region of . His the Regional School. of history and philology and with gre- Sachkhere, as well as ancient sites in father was Simon Takaishvili, a military After graduating from the Clas- at knowledge of Georgian studies, he Tsalka and Trialeti. He also purchased guard officer, and his mother was Nino sical Gymnasium, Takaishvili continued began to teach. He had a multifaceted numerous archaeological objects, in- Nakashidze. Ekvtime was orphaned at an his studies at the Faculty of History and interest in the fields of humanities, his- cluding the material remains of the Sa- early age and went to live with his aunt Philology at St. Petersburg University. At tory, epigraphy, geography, archaeolo- chkhere excavations. and grandmother. His grandmother ad- his initiative, a group of Georgian stu- gy, and art. This allowed him to connect It is clear that Takaishvili’s tireless work mired books and was a skilled story tel- dents asked a professor of the Faculty and synthesize diverse disciplines and led to the establishment of national and ler. In evenings she told him many fairy of Oriental Studies, Alexandre Tsagareli, to deeply understand the vast dimen- regional museums of Georgian history, tales that inspired the little boy, ultima- to arrange for the presentation of lectu- sions of Georgian history and culture. science, and culture. According to his tely motivating him to discover and le- res on Georgian history and literature. Takaishvili began teaching at the Tbili- own words, he “looked for objects like si School and Gymnasium for Noblemen a retriever!”, collecting invaluable sam- he collected and studied Georgian an- ples of national treasures one by one – tiquities as an extension of the work of first as a Board member of the Society his teachers, Marie Felicite Brosset and for the Diffusion of Literacy Among Ge- Dimitri Bakradze. In 1889, at Bakradze’s orgians and later as its Director. His im- advice, he became a member of the portance and value in establishing the Church Museum In 1894, then joined museum is truly priceless. the Imperial Archaeological Commis- At the beginning of the 20th century, sion and the Caucasian Branch of the the Museum of the Georgian Historic Archaeological Society. Begin- and Ethnographic Society replaced the ning in 1901, he served as a member of Museum of the Society for the Diffu- the divisions for Caucasian Branches of sion of Literacy Among Georgians and the Societies of Geography and Oriental began to study, collect and preserve Studies. In 1907, Takaishvili founded the Georgia’s cultural heritage. Takaishvili Historic and Ethnographic Society and became the Director of the Historic and also began working as Deputy Director Ethnographic Society and started to of the Caucasian Institute of History and carry out extensive expeditions. One of Archaeology. After his emigration to these took place in southwestern Geor- France, in 1922, he was elected member gia at the end of the World War I (1917) of the Numismatic Society of France and in Tao-Thortum-Ispir. Takaishvili’s keen not only discovered the Asian Society of Paris. intuition had prompted him to direct Takaishvili Ekvtime Takaishvili is one of the his interest towards this oldest, and and collected Georgian museum founders of . Du- most probably, most “vulnerable” re- objects and displayed them in ring his work as a professor and Head gion of Georgia, where historic monu- exhibits, but was also in charge of of the Department of Archaeology he ments were threatened by destruction. compiled a special course, with an ac- He used the advancement of the Rus- the preservation and conservation cent on the archaeology of fossils. This sian troops on the Turkish front to his of national treasures transported was the first course of archaeology and advantage and immediately decided to France after the Bolshevik the use of archaeological terminology to organize an expedition to liberated in a Georgian university. areas at the sources of the Chorokhi Revolution. Although he lived Until 1917, Ekvtime Takaishvili was and Mtkvari Rivers, some of the most in extreme poverty in exile, he the only active Georgian archaeologist important sites for Georgian culture. managed to purchase some involved in excavations. He discove- Despite positive political develop- red and studied fossils, produced high ments, the journey to this region did objects of Georgian origin from profile studies on ancient structures, not mean the travel would be easy or antique dealers in France. In 1945, and published historical materials. He safe. Takaishvili left his last will and tes- after 24 years of long separation, was responsible for the development tament with his wife, saying “In case I due to Takaishvili’s devotion the and introduction of several principal don’t make it back alive, organize a archaeological regulations and provi- modest funeral and transfer my belon- valuable holdings returned to ded preliminary instructions to future gings to the Historic and Ethnographic Certificate about the election of Ekvtime Takaishvili as the member Georgia. archaeologists on topics to be studied. Society”. of the Numismatic Society of Paris

20 GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM 21 Takaishvili’s successful expeditions Georgia”. The first focused on scientific museums tried to buy the Georgian na- Nino Poltoratskaya had been the beau- heritage. As a result of his work, a book included the churches of Khakhuli, articles and studies in different fields of tional treasures. tiful daughter of a Polish attorney and about the , by Sum- Ekeki, , , Bana and Pa- humanities and the second presented After Takaishvili’s departure from Ge- a Georgian mother, and they had been bat Davitis Dze, an 11th century histo- rkhali; the Castle of Thortum and other the sources themselves – deeds, ma- orgia to France taking treasures from se- introduced by the famous Georgian wri- rian, was published in 1949. architectural sites. Members of expe- nuscripts, historical letters and other veral museums, to ensure their preser- ter, Ilia Chavchavadze. She had accom- Nevertheless, in 1951, the Soviet go- ditions produced scientific measure- documents. vation, Ivane Javakhishvili became Head panied him when he left for France in vernment arrested his adopted dau- ments and drawings and generated Takaishvili not only discovered and of the Historical Society. Javakhishvili 1921 and in spite of her fragile health, ghter, Lydia Poltoratskaya, his only ca- architectural plans. They identified and collected Georgian museum objects stated that as a result of Takaishvili’s she supported his quest to gain know- retaker, and he was put under house registered monuments, recorded archi- and displayed them in exhibits, but efforts, the Georgian Museum had be- ledge and understanding of Georgia’s arrest. When he died, in 1953, appro- Cross of Queen Tamar, end of the 12th century tectural details and copied frescoes. was also in charge of the preservation come the largest and most important history and culture. Nino had died and ximately 40 courageous admirers at- According to Takaishvili “most objects, and conservation of national treasures educational and scientific institution in was buried in Paris in 1931. tended his funeral. He had no children. manuscripts, deeds, pictures, frescoes transported to France after the Bolshe- the country. Shortly after his return in 1945, the His entire life had been dedicated to and plans, which are kept at our mu- vik Revolution. Although he lived in In 1945, after 24 years of long sepa- 82-year-old scholar resumed his scien- creating a lasting example of the love seums and libraries, were collected du- extreme poverty in exile, he managed ration, due to Takaishvili’s devotion the tific work with renewed vigor, dedica- of one’s country, to serious scholarship, ring these excursions.” to purchase some objects of Georgian valuable holdings returned to Georgia. tion, and generosity of spirit, which was and to integrity. The Georgian Orthodox Results of the research by the Histo- origin from antique dealers in France. When he set foot on his native soil, he always reflected in his face. He worked Church officially declared him a Saint ric and Ethnographic Society were fre- Strangely enough, in 1937, Takaishvili smiled and recalled words of the fa- diligently putting in place a number Worthy of Veneration, and Georgians quently presented in publications of published a edi- mous Georgian poet, Akaki Tsereteli: of research projects, and lectured pu- continue to respect his tremendous Goblet, 2nd millenium B.C., the organization. The Society launched tion of the “Archaeological Expedition “I returned a sick man, my homeland blicly at Tbilisi State University about contributions, to honor his lifelong Trialeti two series of editions for this purpo- of 1910 in Lechkhumi and Svaneti”. At welcomed me as a physician.” Howe- the Georgian objects found in Europe, adherence to truth, and to take example se – “Old Georgia” and “Antiquities of the same time British and American ver, he missed visiting his wife’s grave. providing information about Georgia’s from his service to the nation.

22 GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM 23 24

museum-centered concept for both Tbili- visitors to clearly grasp the scale of chan- nal it will be one of the central components si and Berlin. In the case of Berlin there is ges that a project such as “Museum District” unifying and Gudiashvili Keeping the Past – Facing the Future an existing concept of a “Museum Island”, would entail. Street. while in Tbilisi a project will turn the mu- Based on Berlin’s Museum Island exam- Project > Tamar Babuadze seum section of Rustaveli Avenue into a ple we can assume that Museum District New Standards at the National The Twinning Project is an EU-funded program of cooperation that helps public institutions in East European countries completely new urban space. French ar- Tbilisi will soon become a model for pla- Museum harmonize their standards with those of the EU through trainings, seminars, consultations, reorganization and legislative chitect Jean François Milou is the author cing and protecting collections in optimal The Twinning Project is an EU-funded of the project. His plan was presented at spaces, and for the effective allocation of program of cooperation that helps pu- changes. It entails the partnership between public institutions of a EU member state and a country aspiring to become an the exhibition along with sketches of Gu- exposition space. This will be a process that blic institutions in East European coun- EU member, to promote reforms and further development. diashvili Street made by Georgian architect will extend beyond museum walls and, tries harmonize their standards with Vladimer Kurtishvili in the 1970s. through the joint efforts of politicians and those of the EU through trainings, semi- n this new century, a museum is no Museum (London), the Smithsonian Insti- After the international conference, its What is the idea behind Berlin’s Museum representatives of business and academia nars, consultations, reorganization and longer a place for simply collecting, tution (Washington D.C.), Prussian Cultural participants said that the Georgian Natio- Island? What role does it play in the city's will transform the capital's center into a dis- legislative changes. It entails the part- Iconserving and exhibiting artifacts. It is Heritage Foundation / The State Museums nal Museum could become an example of overall urban scene, what does it add to trict of art and knowledge. nership between public institutions of a becoming an inseparable part of urban life. of Berlin, the Metropolitan Museum (New development and progress in the region, it, how does it make it more vibrant? How The project covers an area that includes EU member state and a country aspiring How should the museum fulfill this new York), UNESCO and the Georgian Natio- thanks to its innovative projects. does such a system of museums deal with the National Gallery, Alexander's Garden, to become an EU member, to promote role in the era of supertechnologies? How nal Museum. Importantly, the last day of the issue of protecting and exhibiting col- Gudiashvili Street, Simon Janashia and reforms and further development. should a traditional establishment turn the conference was devoted to the South A Museum District lections? These were questions raised by Shalva Amiranashvili Museums and ad- Twinning projects have been success- this challenge to their advantage? These Caucasus and post-Soviet countries. Arme- A thematic exhibition was held within the exhibition that opened at the Museum, jacent territories. The transformation has fully implemented in various countries for issues were discussed in the autumn of nian, Azeri, Belorussian, Kazakh, Russian, the framework of the conference. The and answered by graphic presentations already begun at the Simon Janashia Mu- more than 10 years, and the agreement on 2012 at an international conference in Tbi- Ukrainian, Uzbek and Georgian experts exhibition, which opened at the Simon Ja- and photos, items and accompanying texts, seum, where a “ticket-free zone” has been cooperation with the Georgian National lisi entitled "Why Museums Now? Keeping participated in a regional workshop enti- nashia Museum of Georgia in cooperation as well as a film for exhibition visitors. These opened with a cafe and a gift shop, with Museum was signed five years ago. The the Past – Facing the Future" by specialists, tled "Museums of Eastern Europe, Central with the Goethe Institute of Georgia and two projects exhibited side by side – one a courtyard that hosts interesting events. goal was to provide the Museum with ins- managers and architects from the British Asia and the Caucasus in the 21st Century". The State Museums of Berlin, presented a implemented and one planned – allowed Once the museum street is fully operatio- titutional support, and was the first Twin-

GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM 25 ning project in the cultural sphere, with was to add one more component to the The second function of the center is the The State Museums of Berlin as the Natio- Twinning project – the creation of storage storage of collections from the Shalva Ami- nal Museum's partner. Leading experts of space for works of art. This will be a system ranashvili Museum of Fine Arts, the Simon The State Museums of Berlin from 40 diffe- of restoration and conservation, diagnostic Janashia Museum of Georgia and the Dimitri rent sectors shared their experience in re- laboratories and collection storage spaces Shevardnadze National Gallery. According organizing a museum in a transition period equipped with modern technologies whe- to the preliminary plan, a large space will be with the Georgian colleagues in the course re all types of items kept in the museum allocated in the new building for the collec- of the 27-month project. Priority spheres can be brought for restoration, conserva- tions and equipped with modern technolo- included the building planning, storage tion and research. The idea is that the cen- gy for the protection of museum items. and workshop space, moving the collec- ter will also help the museums of neigh- On Gudiashvili Street, a new building tions, restoration and conservation of ar- boring countries in scientific research and will be constructed next to the Museum of tifacts, museum management and the in- restoration, as its purpose and capacity will Fine Arts and will contain storage and res- troduction of general museum standards. be of an unprecedented scale in the South toration facilities for art including paintings The Twinning project consisted of four Caucasus. and graphic arts, paper, glass, textile, cera- components. The first envisaged the crea- The author of the concept of the stora- mic, metal and wood. tion of storage space for works of art, the ge facility for the works of art, Jean Fran- The issue of storing the collections in the second created recommendations to im- çois Milou, elaborated the initial draft and new center is addressed in the Twinning prove preventive conservation, the third main aspects of the concept after consul- Project as well. All items at the National The Oriental Art Collection ces from the cultures of Egypt, the Isla- of the Twinning Project. It was also an was a test project for moving the collec- tations with the head of the Georgian Na- Museum have been digitized, and accor- "New Life for the Oriental Art Collec- mic world and the Far East now on dis- experiment since it entailed the creation tions – implemented with the Oriental Art tional Museum and its leading specialists. ding to each item's size, weight, condition tion" is one of the most diverse and rich play, making a lasting impression on the of instructions for moving works of art Collection – and the fourth component en- The project itself was prepared within the and photo have been entered into a data- exhibitions of the Simon Janashia Mu- visitors. into new storage facilities and for con- tailed the preparation of a set of museum framework of the Twinning Project by the base. The floor space of storage facilities seum of Georgia. An Egyptian mummy The exhibition is particularly impor- serving them in the National Museum. standards. Eventually, this document defi- National Museum's Architecture and Cons- for the works of art and laboratories were and a sarcophagus; an 8th-century page tant because many items displayed have This important component of the Twin- ned the Museum's internal standards with truction Office group with the help of lea- planned after these data were analyzed. from the Quran written on parchment; been restored. Due to unsuitable con- ning Project had twofold results: extre- regard to public relations, partnerships ding specialists from The State Museums The two components of modern standar- an easel, a miniature and lacquer pain- ditions at the Shalva Amiranashvili Mu- mely rare items from the Oriental Art and legal issues concerning exhibitions of Berlin. The German colleagues consul- ds and equipment became the basis of the tings from China and Japan; Chinese silk seum of Fine Arts, many items had sus- Collection were treated and restored, and loaning exhibit items. ted the Georgian specialists on each issue entire concept of the center. Thanks to new paintings and compositions on rice pa- tained damage, making them unfit to be while a new set of rules and instructions including the structural analysis, construc- technologies not only restoration and con- per; metal and ceramic tableware; Chine- exhibited. Unique items had to be res- were elaborated. This will mean that pre- Storage Space for Works of Art tion planning and architecture, equipment servation can be conducted but it will also se vases from the 14th to 19th centuries; cued. Restoring and recording-digitizing cious items in the Museum will be pro- One of the priority issues in the Georgian of storage facilities, restoration workshops be possible to carry out a comprehensive and combat weapons made of precious the Oriental Art Collection and moving it tected by more qualified and systematic National Museum's reorganization plan and research labs. scientific study on any item. metals are only a part of 180 masterpie- to new quarters was a main component processes.

26 GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM 27 28 rious members of the staff whose opinions I Would you change something if you Ancient World, then to Getty and other exhibi- respect – but not everyone. There are people could? tions. So, be conscious of presenting yourself; Eminent Director of the whose opinions I don’t care about and I don’t There are things I regret, there are things I do less requesting and more proposing – like invite them to tell me anything. But there are would still like to be able to influence, but I had sending exhibitions abroad. You should send Metropolitan Museum of Art people who I think count in any institution, wisdom to change jobs. I did not retire – inste- some of the works of art you have, and orga- and I have lunch with them, often discuss ad I became a fulltime Professor and have so nize exhibitions in Paris, London, Berlin, New Interview > Natia Khuluzauri issues with them, then aggregate all I learn much work to create courses for the graduate York and other centers of culture. So, yes, you from everyone, which allows me to make qui- school in art history that I don’t have time to need to present yourself more so people un- Philippe de Montebello was born in Paris into French aristocracy; the family moved to ck decisions based on this cumulative intelli- look back and be nostalgic. derstand what you have and who you are… the USA in the 1950s. He graduated from Harvard University with a degree in art history gence. So, I don’t have to bring them all in a then received his MA from New York University. In 1977, Montebello became Director room and say – “Now what shall we do about That must be a great feeling... Several objects from our collections were this or that”, because I have a general sense of Yes! It’s a different life and a very busy life exhibited in the Metropolitan Museum of of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and his name is still associated with the museum’s the right thing to do. This was how I was made too! Art… Golden Age. In 2009 he retired – yet he still remains one of the most influential figures of decisions – I just did things, things happened Yes, you have a great collection of early American cultural life. Today he teaches museum history and culture at NYC’s Institute of quickly and they happened decisively… It’s a I am sure the students are eager and very cloisonné enamels. When we did a Byzan- Fine Arts. In the autumn of 2012, Professor Montebello came to Tbilisi and participated in form of “benevolent dictatorship”… happy to attend your lectures. tine exhibition at the Met we borrowed the conference “Why Museums Now? Keeping the Past – Facing the Future” organized by Professor Philippe de Montebello, I cannot speak for them – I hope so… objects from your collections, but as part the Georgian National Museum, Goethe-Institut Georgia and Staatliche Museen zu Berlin / Director of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in I suppose it’s quite difficult to make of another exhibition. You should organize 1977-2008, Professor of the Institute of Fine Arts, the decision to resign...perhaps it’s about Tell me, with your experience, what exhibitions that don’t come exclusively from New-York University. Stiftung Preußischer Kulturbesitz. During his visit we had the honor of speaking with him. choosing the right moment in this case… would you advise the Director of the Geor- only one Georgian museum. Look at your- But, still it must not be easy to let go of so- gian National Museum? self as a country – if you pull resources from How did you choose your profession? Jean-Michel Basquiat and others were re- Let’s return to New-York – we all know mething that you devoted most of your life Nothing! I do not give advice and I do not different places you can create exhibitions Even as a child I was interested in art, and volutionizing Art… that Rome was considered the first capital to, and that you made so successful. You believe in giving advice. If someone wants to and programs to send abroad. In this way when I went to the university I decided to I was never involved or particularly interes- of art, then Paris, then from the middle of decided to resign just as the Museum was extrapolate from what I have done, from what other people become aware of the great th major in art history. There is nothing compli- ted in contemporary cultural life. I wasn’t in- the 20 century… at the height of its success – why? others do – they can… But I am not a con- culture of Georgia. cated about it – some people like mathema- volved with Warhol, and I’m not involved with New-York! Just as the progression of my career was line- sultant – I refused all jobs as consultant and tics, some people become scientists. I always today’s artists. I am an old fossil and – although ar and logical – studying art history at the Uni- I don’t believe in giving advice to other peo- So considering this, and since you first knew I wanted my life to be connected to art. I follow what is happening today, I don’t have Again, you were the part of this develo- versity, studying as Assistant Curator in the Euro- ple or other institutions, just as I do not give visited Georgia 30 years ago, what do you any emotional involvement or interest in it, pment, and directly or indirectly you were pean Paintings Department at the Metropolitan recommendations to my successor at the Me- find has changed since then – and what is What about your first steps at the New and never did… involved in the process that made New- Museum of Art, then moving up to become tropolitan Museum of Art… I leave him alone, the same in Georgia today? York Metropolitan Museum of Art – the -York the international cultural center that Associate Curator, then becoming Director of a just as I was left alone by my predecessor. Well, it is a bit the same situation here as in exhibitions and events? Which was most Which period of art history is most nota- it became. What can you say about this? small museum in Houston… next I come back all of the countries that were once part of the successful? ble for you then? Which epoch or direction I don’t know – maybe I was in a right place to the Met to become Chief Curator and then I thought you were sometimes asked for Soviet Union – I walked here from my hotel In my career at the Met I created more attracts you? at the right time – but I don’t think I created Director. This was smooth, logical and even lu- advice about new exhibitions or other spe- and there was no KGB person following me. I than 600 exhibitions – it’s hard to name It so happens that I specialized in early events; I think I exploited the circumstan- cky in a way, and for 31 years I ran the institution. cial events… looked around and saw an athlete on a poster th only one! Dutch and French painting – 15 century ces successfully. I’m not sure if I’m an inven- I have come to the point where I have basically If I do give opinions, I give them privately. with a big name: Samsung. You have become painting such as Fouquet, Van Eyck and Ro- tor or a creator… But, you know, I think that reinstalled just about all the collections – the last a country that has become international and Of course most were very successful – but gier van der Weyden… But that’s not neces- everything I did, I did well. I always stressed big one was the Greek and Roman Galleries. I Then I’ll seize my chance and ask you open in the commercial, financial and cultural what was the first time you tasted the sen- sarily what I prefer in the world – it’s what excellence and never lowered the bar of the had made all the plans for the American wing – what advice would you give to the Geor- worlds. I arrived here this time without a visa, sation of great satisfaction for an innovati- I studied for my degrees at the University. expectations of the public – that’s most impor- and for the new Islamic wing. More and more gian National Museum as an institution, for example. In the old days, going to the So- ve exhibition? However, as the Director of the museum tant. If you always continue to raise the bar for people were saying that museums must chan- how should it situate itself globally? viet Union was a big problem and took weeks I suppose my first success was a series with all of the art of the world, I developed the public, they will begin to expect better and ge, that they must show more contemporary – You must understand people’s thoughts of preparation. You are now like rest of Europe of exhibitions I organized with the Soviet an interest in Islamic art… This is what I love better – and I think that’s what I did. art, and that museums must have more elec- are influenced by their positions, their loca- and the rest of the world. You are now a free Union – “Scythian’s Gold”, followed by “Tre- most and collect today. tronics and technology. I am ignorant and even tions and a lot of external factors. For example, country and one senses it. asures of the Kremlin”, followed by three or I am sure you often had to make very indifferent to technology, but I am intelligent Americans do not understand geography in four shows on the Peter the Great and Ka- It seems that this was the reason for your hard and complicated decisions… enough to know and realize that this was inde- general and many of them – when you say So, do you think we will have our own therine the Great – then there was a show special interest in the oriental exhibition at Daily… ed a shift the Museum needed to take. I was also “Georgia” – don’t think of the Republic of Ge- place on the map of the world’s museums? th th of 19 and 20 century paintings… So this the Georgian National Museum, and the sufficiently self-aware to know that I was not the orgia in the Caucasus; they think about the Well, you are getting there. was a series of exhibitions from the Soviet Qajar collection? Did you take risks often, or did you plan a person who would make the right decisions in state of Georgia in US. So, in the US you need Union – and nobody had of done it before! Yes, you have a great collection of Qajar por- lot in advance? How did that work? that field, because I knew nothing. So, I decided to propose something that is characteristic of Finally, let me ask “Why museums now?” traits. I would say that even the Metropolitan I have an unorthodox management style. I – I am 72, I’ve spent 30 years as Director, the Mu- who you are. For the rest of the world, you also What is the role of the museum in this ra- You were the Director of the Metropoli- does not have the quantity or quality of the don’t have meetings – I don’t believe in them. seum is great; I leave my successor a marvelous need to show your uniqueness, so the way you pidly changing epoch of the digital techno- tan Museum of Art during an interesting Qajar Dynasty portraits found in here. I also And I don’t believe in consensus building, staff, a well managed institution with a good introduce yourself is something that has alrea- logies? epoch, when cultural life in New-York was liked the oriental ceramics and metal vessels which is very popular today. I listen to people budget and he can make the changes. There is dy been done, like sending the Vani gold trea- Why museums now? – Because people still at its peak and Andy Warhol, Jasper Johns, from your collection. and talk individually to my curators and va- a time for everything. So I left perfectly content. sure to New York’s Institute for the Study of the thirst for authenticity!

GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM 29 30 that they all share the basic points of one titution who participated in it. Seeing In autumn 2012 an international con- Hermann Parzinger and the same mission statement. We wan- the difficulties others have to overco- ference “Why Museums Now? Keeping ted to combine some aspects, such as the me, it can sometimes help you to better the past – Facing the Future” was held Leader of the Museum traditions and long histories of these ins- understand your own situation and be at the Georgian National Museum. This titutions, with modernity, innovation and more appreciative. On the other hand, I was one of the most important events an orientation towards the public. These have enormous respect for what Geor- in our museum’s life since museum spe- Field in Germany are also the most important points for gia achieved in the last years building up cialists from all over the world came to any museum in the 21st century, and are this fascinating “museum street” in the Georgia to discuss today’s issues. What Interview > Natia Khuluzauri not so different from the 20th or 19th cen- city center of Tbilisi. There is much that would you say about such conferences An EU-supported twinning project was jointly implemented in 2009- turies – museums, like other cultural ins- remains to be done, but we are very glad and forums? 2012 by the Prussian Cultural Heritage Foundation and the Georgian titutions, have to stay in close touch and we could travel a short piece of the way National Museum to support the institutional development of the continuously reach out to new publics in with you. Museums and all other cultural and order to fascinate people by art, history scientific institutions are, and shoud latter in collaboration with the State Museums of Berlin. Twinning and culture. To do this they have to use Could you give us an overall evalua- be, active international players. There- programs with Europe have existed successfully for a decade, designed the most modern and innovative metho- tion of the project and its importance fore it was excellent to hold this confe- for collaboration between Western Europe and Eastern European ds and techniques. When museums are for our museums? rence, which brought museum leaders countries that subsequently became members of the EU. The first in close touch with their visitors, they are together from different countries to twinning project in the field of culture was implemented by the Professor Hermann Parzinger, never old-fashioned – this has been the Everyone knows Georgia is not a discuss key issues, challenges and di- renowned scientist and a leading specialist of prehistory, secret of successful museums since the affluent country, but it’s for this reason fficulties. Indeed, only those of us who Prussian Cultural Heritage Foundation, Germany and the Georgian President of the Prussian Cultural Heritage Foundation, th National Museum. the largest cultural institution in Europe. 18 century. everyone admires what they are creating continuously learn from others will be in the center of the capital. Culturally, Ge- successful. How can one engage the public in the life of a museum? Public engagement has many different facets. First of Professor Parzinger, as Head of the Museums play an important role becau- the world waiting to be fully studied so Public engagement has many diffe- all, museums have to aim their programs at people within Prussian Cultural Heritage Foundation – se first of all they preserve and analyze the they can open their secrets and help us un- rent facets. First of all, museums have different parts of society, for example different ages, different one of the largest cultural heritage insti- cultural heritage of a country. Secondly derstand the past. Basically, conservation to aim their programs at people within tutions in Europe, overseeing 17 museu- they use this heritage to educate the pu- research is necessary so we don’t lose our different parts of society, for example interests and education, as well as cultural or religious ms, libraries and archives – could you blic – to help them become interested in cultural heritage. Some material culture is different ages, different interests and backgrounds – museums must engage them all. Therefore tell us about this complex institution? art, history and culture, which is very im- in critical condition and has to be constan- education, as well as cultural or reli- it is important that museums offer activities that combine portant for modern society. In Germany tly cared for in the best conditions. gious backgrounds – museums must The Prussian Cultural Heritage Foun- museums and other cultural institutions engage them all. Therefore it is impor- temporary exhibitions with permanent ones and integrate dation includes the National Museums receive strong support from the gover- Not long ago the Prussian Cultural tant that museums offer activities that exhibitions into other cultural programs. Public engagement of Berlin, the National Library of Berlin, nment, especially the Prussian Cultural Heritage Foundation finished rebran- combine temporary exhibitions with also implies financial engagement – those who are wealthy the Prussian State Archive and other ins- Heritage Foundation in Berlin, since large ding. Could you give us some key permanent ones and integrate exhi- titutions. Of course, to lead such a large projects like the renovation of Museum points from that process which are bitions into other cultural programs. should feel a certain obligation to support cultural institutions, institution is challenging, but our col- Island or reconstruction of the Berlin Pa- pertinent to modern cultural institu- Public engagement also implies finan- which always lack sufficient funding, even in Germany. lections cover all types of cultural heri- lace with the Humboldt-Forum, shape the tions? Could you tell us about the ge- cial engagement – those who are we- tage, art and material culture, literature, picture of a country as a cultural nation in neral mission of museums in the 21st althy should feel a certain obligation documents and music – so it is a unique the eyes of the world. century? to support cultural institutions, which orgia is an extremely rich country, and it How do you see the future rela- chance for the institutions that are part always lack sufficient funding, even in was a brilliant investment in its future to tionship of recently twinned State of our Foundation. This is especially true As a world famous scientist, do you Today clear branding and a good un- Germany. care for this cultural heritage. The invest- Museums of Berlin and the Georgian in today’s digital world when you can believe scientific study is the founda- derstanding of the mission of an insti- ments you are making now will reflect National Museum? connect all these museums, libraries and tion of Museum life? tution are extremely important. They For more than three years, the first the cultural achievements of the Geor- archives. However it is very important to influence how an institution sees itself EU-supported twinning project in gian people for a very long time. It can I strongly hope that we will continue to create the understanding between them Research is the basic foundation of a mu- and shapes its self-perception, and at the the cultural field was implemented help Georgians today to be stimulated to collaborate on both exhibitions and re- that they must cooperate and work toge- seum. If a museum is not engaged in rese- same time they send out a message that by the Prussian Cultural Heritage work for a better future when they realize search projects in the coming years. We ther to face common challenges in order arch, then it only becomes a storehouse of conveys a certain image. For us it was very Foundation’s State Museums of Berlin the achievements of the past. In addition should deepen our relations since Geor- to stay at the cutting edge of their fields. material culture. Research produces new important that our new branding sho- and the Georgian National Museum. to this, the project and its contacts which gia is a wonderful and extremely interes- perspectives about our past and new sto- wed, above all, that all museums, libraries, Why did you decide to participate in the museums in Georgia have with ins- ting country. All those from the Prussian In your opinion, what is a museum’s ries about history, which we want to show archives and research institutes of the this project? titutions all over the world, everybody Cultural Heritage Foundation who have place in the larger political picture of the public through exhibitions. There are Prussian Cultural Heritage Foundation be- I think it has been a very important learns about Georgia and about what is been to Georgia within this Twinning a country? so many collections in museums all over long to one and the same institution and experience for all members of my ins- happening there. Project would love to come back!

GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM 31 32 re which were found in the cultural layers of the mines played an important role in the preliminary dating of the monument. Radio-carbon dating later confirmed this upon examination of charcoal discovered in the same layers. The period of works in these mines was determined at 3 330-2 580 B.C. Thus gold mi- ning in these tunnels continued for 750 years. Due to the sen- sational archaeological research results in Sakdrisi the site was identified as the oldest monument of gold mining in the world. In 2006, Sakdrisi entered the list of Georgia's Cultural Heritage Monuments. It became clear during the course of the research, that at the same time other ancient civilizations like Egypt were extrac- ting gold by sifting through sand along river beds, societies in the Lesser Caucasus Mountains were already acquainted with complex underground mining technologies – detecting almost invisible gold in ore mines with the naked eye, using stone tools to separate it from rock, then crushing, washing and smelting it. To carry out more complex research it became necessary to find an ancient mining settlement. After archaeological reconnaissance work the remains of a settlement and burial grounds were found, that covered over 62 hectares on terri- tory adjacent to today’s village of Balichi. This is currently con- The Mystery of the Sakdrisi Mines sidered the largest archaeological remains of any settlement of the Kura-Araxes period in the South Caucasus. Research > Irina Ghambashidze Inside the buildings stone tools for processing ore occupied a The world's oldest gold production site has been discovered In Sakdrisi, in southern key place, along with Kura-Araxes ceramics. One of the buildings Georgia, where archaeological research has produced sensational results. This is the world's oldest was a workshop where a smelting furnace was found; around it were small stone hammers, pounders, crushers, grinding boards, known gold production site, dating from the 4th millennium B.C. Over 15 tunnels and mining platforms and crushed ore. Inside the furnace, a slag-covered clay cubicle were discovered in this site where extracted gold ore underwent preliminary treatment. to melt ore was found. Based on these discoveries, the site was identified as a settlement of miners, where gold ore from Sakdri- cientific cooperation with the German Mining Museum in Master's, Doctoral and Post-doctoral students from Georgia and si underwent secondary treatment and smelting, at the turn of Bochum (DBM) began in 1996, and since that time several internationally and has contributed to the preparation of a cour- the 4th and the 3rd millennia B.C. The burial grounds were mostly Simportant archaeological projects have been implemen- se of lectures in Georgian, and courses in Caucasian archaeology. collective, with clay items as the main burial accessories. ted. Between 2001 and 2003 an exhibition entitled "Georgia – There have been workshops held in archaeology and archaeo- Through interdisciplinary projects, analytical research began in Treasure from the Land of the Golden Fleece" was organized in metallurgy. parallel to archaeological research. Samples of gold from Georgia's the German cities of Bochum and Wiesbaden where 756 copper, Within the framework of the project archaeological excava- mines and from ore-bearing sands along riverbeds were collected bronze, antimony, lead, iron, gold and silver artifacts demonstra- tions started in the mining tunnels of the Sakdrisi mine, which for comparison using chemical and isotope analyses. Samples ted the uninterrupted history of Georgia's ancient metalwork. had been discovered in 1987 in the southern region of Kvemo were sent to laboratories at the DBM Institute of Archaeometallur- A Georgian exhibition in Germany in 2003 resulted in two edu- Kartli near the town of Kazreti. Geological works meant excava- gy and the Institute of Mineralogy the Gothe University of Frank- cational and scientific projects implemented in cooperation with tions could be carried out as deep as 25 meters below the sur- furt, where they were analyzed with participation of Georgian and tween the the Georgian National Museum, the German Mining DBM, the Ruhr University Bochum (RUB) and the University of face. German Doctoral and Master's degree students. Museum Bochum and the Ruhr University Bochum. The Ger- Frankfurt (IMUF) with funding from the Volkswagen Foundation The densest cultural layers in the mining tunnels were found This research will provide information about where the gold from man Research Foundation (DFG), the French National Center (Germany). The first was entitled "Stepping up interdisciplinary at 1.5-2.4 meters where fragments of earthenware were discove- Sakdrisi went, as results of the analysis of gold artifacts and ores for Scientific Research (CNRS) and the French National Research research and introducing new methods of mining archaeology red in situ along with charcoal, stone, bone and obsidian tools. discovered in Georgia are summarized. The archaeological study of Agency (ANR) have funded a new project, "Salt, Copper and Gold and archaeometallurgy in Georgia" and the second, initiated in Marks indicating the use of stone hammers could be seen clearly Caucasian, Mesopotamian and Anatolian gold artifacts will be com- – the Oldest Mining Production in the Caucasus" with participa- 2007, is entitled "Gold in Georgia". The goal of the projects are to on the smooth walls, indicating their archaic origins. The ancient pleted. Importantly, it has already been shown that at the turn of the tion of the Archéorient – Environnements et Sociétés de l’Orient study ancient metallurgy in Georgia using both social and natu- mining tunnels followed the gold veins, leaving no doubt that 4th and 3rd millennia B.C., underground mining and processing gold Ancien (Maison de l’Orient et de la Méditerranée, Université de ral science research to learn how raw materials were extracted the mines were used to extract gold. Over 10 000 stone mining in the South Caucasus was taking place locally. Lyon, France), the Georgian National Museum and the Nakhchi- and processed in the Caucasus in ancient times. tools were discovered over the territory of Sakdrisi, proving that In 2009, a long-term memorandum of mutual cooperation van branch of the National Academy of Sciences of Azerbaijan. The archaeometallurgical study of ore mines on Georgia’s the primary treatment of gold likely took place on location. was signed between the Georgian National Museum, DBM, RUB The project is interdisciplinary, with over 50 research scientists territory includes that of ancient metal artifacts. It has involved The discovery of clay items typical of the Kura-Araxes cultu- and the DMT. In 2013, a new stage began in the relations be- participating from several institutions.

GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM 33 34 A Region of Treasures

Region > Salome Guruli The renovation of Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography is an exceptionally important event in our country's cultural life. Today Georgian treasures are presented in excellent conditions and are accessible for the broader audience.

GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM 35 he history of the Svaneti Museum of History and and recommended urgent renewal as both the building Ethnography goes back almost a century. Its es- and its collections would otherwise be irreparably da- Ttablishment is linked to the founders of humani- maged. Finally a decision was made to demolish the old ties in Georgia, as well as to local figures who had the museum and build a new one. vision to create a museum to protect the region's cul- In 2013, a comprehensive rehabilitation of the Sva- tural heritage. neti Museum of History and Ethnography, carried One of the first studies about Svaneti was conducted out with governmental support, was completed. The by Douglas William Freshfield, President of the Royal Georgian National Museum consortium, along with Geographical Society, UK. His work, illustrated by the Georgian and foreign specialists contributed to the Italian mountaineer and one of the first photographers project, including architecture (Gaga Kiknadze); Exhi- of the Caucasus, Vittorio Sella, was published in London bitionspace design (Lina Maria Lopez); and lightening Jewellery "Aslar", in 1896. Vittorio Sella visited Svaneti three times betwe- design ("En phase" company). th 19 century / Vermeil, niello en 1886 and 1890 leaving us unique photographs of Any museum concept is developed around the col- the region in the 19th century. Photographer and ethno- lections that are kept in it. The collection of the Svaneti

Jewellery "Chaprastal" grapher Dmitri Ermakov brought 1,500 negatives back Museum is composed mostly of treasures donated to 19th century / Silver, niello to Tbilisi from his Svanetian trips, and during his 1910 churches. The storyline of the exhibition has been arran- expedition he was the first to photograph the Adishi ged according to this principle. The voyage back into his- Gospels. These are the oldest known Gospels (897 A.D.), tory starts with archaeological material discovered in the kept in Svaneti for centuries, which were discovered in region, which reflects the uninterrupted history of this the village of Adishi by the scholar of Svanetian history important centre of mountainous Colchis from the 3rd- and ethnography, Besarion Nizharadze. 2nd millennia B.C., i.e. the Early Bronze Age to the Middle In the early 1930s, it was decided to unify, catalogue and Ages, the next hall is occupied entirely by numismatic protect the treasures kept in Svanetian churches – unique treasures. Icons, crosses and vessels donated to the chur- manuscripts, ancient coins, ethnographic artifacts, ritual ches over time are exhibited in the following two halls. items or unique icons and crosses. As a result, the first mu- Svaneti is a significant seat of medieval Georgian culture. seum opened in Mestia in 1936. Initially, the artifacts that The monuments of Christian Art, preserved here, attest were kept in Mestia's main church – St. George Church of to the fact that medieval Georgian culture developed 40 Sebastian Martyrs 12th century / Wood, Seti – became part of the museum's collection. Egnate in close relations with the advanced spiritual centres of canvas, levkas, sheet Gabliani, who graduated from St Petersburg University Byzantium and the Christian East. The last two galleries gold, tempera and had been publishing essays on Svaneti since 1920 display unique manuscripts and rich ethnographic ma- became the Museum’s Director under the pseudonym of terial. New display with functional, conceptual and aes- Egnate Svani. Under his leadership the Museum enriched thetic design of the showcases, meets high international its collections greatly, and it continues to do so. A decisive standards. It welcomes and attracts the visitors by the di- role in this process was played by a multifaceted scientific fferent rhythm of presentation and opens ways to learn expedition to Svaneti that started in 1972, after which the more about the items through the increase the level of Government of Soviet Georgia adopted a special resolu- visual access. Temporary exhibition space at the center of tion on the protection of the material and spiritual cultural the building is flexible enough to allow in-depth explora- Adishi Four Gosspels heritage of Svaneti. The museum became the Museum of tions of art works. The new public spaces (museum shop, Pages of the manuscript with Canon Tables / 897/ History and Ethnography of Svaneti, which was part of the café, multimedia center, auditorium) diversify the ways Parchment Simon Janashia Georgian State Museum. The construction in which the museum interacts with its audience. New of the new building began, and continued for 27 years. In building has increased storage space and expanded spa- 2003 the museum took up its quarters in the new, dras- ce for laboratory and research. The renovated Svaneti

Donated treasure tically incomplete building. A hodgepodge of structures Museum of History and Ethnography emphasizes the Pouch, stone, bead, coin imitations, Turkish Aqches, Russian tokens unsatisfactory both in external aspects and interior ma- museum’s mission to be a resource, a place for education nagement with unfinished internal work and unstable cli- and inspiration. mate conditions complicated the protection of the unique treasures. The Georgian National Museum thanks the following institu- In 2004, the museum joined the National Museum con- tions and organizations for their support: sortium as part of the Simon Janashia Georgian State Mu- Georgian National Commission for UNESCO; European Union; seum. Since then, with support from international founda- Prussian Cultural Heritage Foundation / The State Museums tions and organizations, several large-scale projects have of Berlin; Smithsonian Institution; US Ambassadors Fund for been carried out. In 2010, Ellis Williams Architects from the Cultural Preservation; Embassy of Italy in Georgia; Embassy of UK in collaboration with the GNM studied the building Switzerland in Georgia

Renovated exposition halls of the Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography 36 GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM 38 The Multicultural History of the Museum

REGION > Nino Megrelidze The very first museum in the city of Akhaltsikhe opened in 1880s, created by Ivane Gvaramadze. Historian, ethnographer and archaeologist, Gvaramadze published essays in the newspapers Iveria and Droeba, familiarizing the Georgian public with the problems and history of Samtskhe-Javakheti (also known as Meskheti). He carried out educational work among the Turkophone Meskhetians who lived there, and created a library and an elementary school in Akhalsikhe. For many years he collected historical items, and eventually opened a family museum in his home.

n 1921, items from his home, along bblestone, sometimes with mud bricks with those from abandoned churches and wood. It had a smelter, squares with Iand monasteries, were included in sacrificial altars, and tombs. Studies con- exhibits in a regional museum created in firmed that people who lived on the ter- Akhaltsikhe. The establishment had no ritory of Akhaltsikhe thousands of years time to become known, as it was soon ago farmed the land. Their metallurgy was closed down – the exhibits were moved highly developed, and metal items show to the Simon Janashia State Museum in unparalleled skill. The inhabitants of the Tbilisi. The Akhalsikhe Museum reope- area were also skilled at making clay and ned only in 1937, thanks to the son of Iva- ceramic items – often for ritual purposes – ne Gvaramadze, Konstantine. The newly- today known as Meskhetian ceramics. -founded museum was given the status The excavations confirmed that humans of “local history museum” and its former have inhabited the territory of Javakheti sin- exhibit items were returned. ce ancient times. The remains of numerous In 1972, the Museum moved to buil- settlements, fortresses built with enormous dings inside the historical Rabati For- boulders, and crypts dating back to early tress, and efforts to enrich the museum's antiquity have since been discovered. Ja- collections began. The Javakhishvili vakheti is first mentioned in an inscription Samtskhe-Javakheti Museum of History, by the King of Urartu in 785 B.C. The city of as it was called then, already had signi- Akhaltsikhe was in the fiefdom of Atabegs ficant manuscripts, rare editions, photos, and, until the 1830s, it was the main city of ethnographic samples and other histo- the "Childiri" Kingdom. It was a settlement rical materials. However, archaeological situated on extremely important trade rou- excavations carried out in Samtskhe-Ja- tes between South Caucasus and Western vakheti beginning in the 1950s enriched Asia. It is because of such a diverse cultu- not only the Museum's collections but ral history that Akhaltsikhe has an eclectic considerably enhanced the historical sig- appearance, with both Eastern and Western nificance of Akhaltsikhe in general. influences. This lends greater interest to the Amiran's Hill, near Akhaltsikhe, is a artifacts found in the Samtskhe-Javakheti mountain on the left bank of the Potskho- History Museum, which include jewelry, ri- vi River, and on its southern slope the re- tual goblets, glass vessels, clothes and rugs. mains of a village were discovered during After the Ivane Javakhishvili Samtskhe- archaeological digs that started in 1953. -Javakheti History Museum had become Dating from the 3rd millennium B.C., the part of the Georgian National Museum, settlement was built using rock and co- reconstruction began, and many projects

GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM 39 Renovated exposition of the Samtkhe-Javakheti Museum of History

preserve the historical appearance of the building and its surroundings. This is why architectural elements of the buil- ding – window niches as well as arches of central walls – are used as show-cases. The mostly-glass, transparent and almost invisible showcases seem to disappear in the space of the halls, drawing all atten- tion to the building and artifacts. Special lighting creates an impression that the exhibited items are suspended in air. The exhibition centers chronologically around the Meskhetian house. Some objects are exhibited in a showcase and others are not, which allows visitors to see them up close, providing an expe- rience of greater intimacy. The exhibition offers a continuous, se- have been implemented in Akhaltsikhe exhibition halls were moved to a new quential line of historical developments with the help from international orga- building, called “Jakelis’ Palace”. The mu- that occurred on the Meskhetian territory nizations and companies. One special seum re-opened in 2012 with a new from ancient times until the 20th century. initiative was implemented with the sup- name, new exhibits and international The modern, comfortable environment of port from BP and its partners. Collections museographic standards. the renovated Samtskhe-Javakheti History were replenished by artifacts discovered The architectural project of the reno- Museum provides a unique opportunity to during archaeological excavations carried vated building of the Ivane Javakhishvili see archaeological, ethnographic, paleon- out during the construction of the - Samtskhe-Jvakheti Museum of History was tological, paleographic, numismatic, archi- -Ceyhan and South Caucasus Pipelines. winner of the International competition “Ar- tectural and other aspects of Meskhetian The Museum was also equipped with a chitectural Award 2012” in the Nomination history. The exhibits show how each era storage facility for archaeological collec- of Restoration / Reconstruction (Author of was characterized by the coexistence of tions and a new exhibition was organized the Project Gaga Kiknadze (Company: Archi- different cultures reflected in ancient lan- within the framework of the same project. tects.ge Ltd.)), organized by the Association dscapes and the environment, traditions However, the most important changes of Architects of Georgia, Architects' Club and rituals, elements of social structure for the museum began in 2011, when and STYLE Magazine. and hierarchy, religions, advanced medie- restoration and construction work star- Today called the Samtskhe-Javakheti val architecture and the literature of the ted in historical Rabat and the Museum's History Museum, the creators tried to Meskhetian territory.

40 GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM 41 42

Cooking House from Guria region A Mini-Model of Georgia Project > Natia Likokeli, Mariam Samadashvili Immersed in greenery on the hillsides along the road leading up to the Turtle Lake, the Ethnographic Museum in Tbilisi – a miniature model of Georgia – was founded in 1966 by ethnographer Giorgi Chitaia.

his “Open-air Georgia" covers appro- With international support, several teresting, entertaining activities. While ximately 50 hectares and is divided projects have been carried out at the ghomi is cooking in the hearth, the head Tinto 11 zones. Eastern Georgia is re- Ethnographic Museum in recent years: of the household engages them in tradi- presented by five zones and another five a new storage facility, digitized exhibit tional craftsmanship, teaching them to are dedicated to Western regions. The ele- items, and restored dwellings, such as weave cylindrical baskets. venth zone is home to such historical and the Megrelian house brought from the Based on this experience, another exhi- archaeological monuments as the Sioni Ba- village of Ontopo in 1976. It was recently bition, "Kakhetian abundance at a Gior- silica and the crypt of the 5th-6th centuries, restored with support from the Norwe- gitsminda House" opened on November 9, an Abkhazian dolmen – or megalithic tomb gian Open-Air Museum, and a ‘reviving 2013. As in the Megrelian dwelling, visitors – dating from the 2nd millennium B.C. history’ exhibition was held there. to the Kakhetian house are greeted by a Different regions of Georgia are re- Visitors who come to see this old Me- “family” dressed in traditional clothes. Ho- presented by homesteads that are grelian dwelling are greeted by the head wever, instead of ghomi, they are offered usually composed of a house, a yard of the household, the mistress and the shoti (Georgian bread) baked in a tone, an and outbuildings necessary for life in children dressed in traditional garments. earthenware oven in the yard. The family rural areas. A total of seventy construc- The hosts, in addition to telling the guests will tell the guests about the typical ma- tions, including outbuildings, were the story of the house and describing lo- nagement of a traditional Kakhetian hou- brought to Tbilisi from the regions of cal beliefs, offer them ghomi (Italian mil- sehold, and about the sacred meaning of Samtskhe-Javakheti, Guria, Samegrelo, let (Setaria italica)) cooked in the hearth. bread and the vine. Visitors take part in the , Racha-Lechkhumi, Abkhazia, Ancient species of Italian millet, corn and process of baking and tasting the bread. Ajaria, Svaneti, Kartli and , all beans are planted on the farmstead, on a The Kakhetian “hall house” was moved of which contain approximately 8,000 small plot outside the dwelling house. to the Ethnographic Museum from the exhibit items (furniture, tools, etc.) Visitors learn about Georgian traditio- village of Giorgitsminda in 1974. This from all over the country. nal everyday life by participating in in- joint project between the Georgian Na-

GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM 43 composed of thematic weeks, when Ge- orgian craftsmen – potters, smiths and loom weavers – taught crafts to school and university students from spring till late Autumn. Currently, a project implemented in partnership with the Skansen Open-Air Museum (Sweden) aims to "animate" a second house brought from the village of Ontopo, Samegrelo – this time benefi- ting from the experience of the Skansen Museum in Stockholm – the world's ol- dest open-air museum. The "animated everyday life" and tra- ditional crafts programs are some of the best ways to promote our country's culture and disseminate knowledge Living history exhibition at the Giorgitsminda house about Georgian traditional ways of life, customs, rituals and household mana- tional Museum, the Norwegian Directo- was completed, the doors of "Giorgits- gement. Engaging visitors in diverse ac- rate for Cultural Heritage and ICOMOS minda" opened to the public again. An tivities not only helps Georgian youth (Georgian National Committee of Inter- exhibition was organized with support and adults learn about their own history national Council on Monuments and Si- from the National Intellectual Property through interactive and entertaining tes) was carried out between 2008 and Center Sakpatenti. activities, but also sparks interest and a 2010, using traditional tools and techni- A project implemented in partnership greater understanding by foreign visitors ques. This included the restoration of the with UNESCO and Norway’s Maihaugen of the country’s traditions and diverse house after its displacement. When work Museum included a summer school cultures.

Living history exhibition at the Sajalabo House The Barn. Samegrelo region

44 GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM 45 46 million. The research centers are back- at the same time. Scheduling the work in the humanities area; he also read profu- bone of the entire Smithsonian. The lar- was important because often the data sely and understood technology. gest one is Astrophysics Observatory at collections process, reduction of mate- The Smithsonian is a wonderful pla- Harvard, which belongs to the Smithso- rial, and analysis are labor intensive, es- ce for bringing together science, tech- nian; another important one is a Tropi- pecially in conjunction with qualitative nology, engineering, and mathematics cal Research Institute in Panama, which research. as well as the arts and humanities. And does work on bio diversity and climate The staff working in the office have very our office was a great example. When change. Any day of the year, one can interesting backgrounds. I hired several you examine decisions, you have to look find Smithsonian researchers working PhDs including a statistician, organizatio- through multiple perspectives and you Impressed by in about 100 countries of the world. nal anthropologist, sociologists, and eco- need many sets of eyes to produce a re- Establishment of the Institution is nomist; I had specialists in organizational ally great in depth study. I have learned connected with the name of James Smi- development, management, and strate- over the years that the best ways to ap- Georgia thson (1765-1829), a British aristocrat gic planning, editing, and a person with a proach problem solving are collabora- and scientist who was very much enga- degree in public administration. We also tion and teamwork, in short, assigning a ged in research in the field of Geology. had people with the museum backgroun- team to perform tasks and holding them museum friend > Mikheil Tsereteli He left his entire fortune to the United ds and numerous interns from all over the accountable. If you look at some of the Dr. Carole Neves had been working as the Director of the Office for Policy and Analysis States. He had never once set foot on world. One had been a longtime director most successful enterprises of the world of the Smithsonian Institution for many years. She initiated and supported close American soil but was very inspired of a major museum. whether NASA, or whether or ARPA, one with the new democracy and the gover- cooperation between the Georgian National Museum and the Smithsonian. nmental system of the US. The Congress Carole Neves was aware that this money supposed to Nature is breathtaking, geography is diverse, history be used to build a capacity to generate is rich, and the cultural objects are intriguing. Georgia has and disseminate knowledge. The Smi- thsonian views itself as a knowledge such talented people in the cultural arena. Unfortunately, I BIO some experts wanted to form gover- upside down. It was the best learning producing institution, sharing this kno- can’t read Georgian, so I can’t appreciate literature and poetry Dr. Carole Neves first studied Inter- nment sponsored corporation to ma- experience in my life. The group trave- wledge not only with the general public unless it is translated. I read some of poems that have been national Relations, followed by Urban nage the space shuttle program. So, I led all over the United States and scru- in the US but also with the world at lar- Economics, and lastly Policy Analysis. joined the National Academy and we tinized every aspect of NASA. I beca- ge. The Smithsonian is a public entity translated, and they are very moving. She obtained her PhD in this discipli- conducted a rigorous study. We con- me very involved in the issues related that receives both governmental and ne. In between Masters and Doctors cluded that the Shuttle Program and to the finance, organizational structu- private support. degrees, she studied in Egypt, whe- NASA itself could not be privatized at re, micro and macro management, le- The Office’s job was to improve the de- of the most innovative agencies that was re she researched the Arab Socialist that point, because the complex tech- adership and decision making.” Carole THE SMITHSONIAN’S OFFICE FOR cision making, and also improve the effi- responsible for the development of the Union, a one party political system. nologies were so coupled on ongoing Neves stayed at the National Academy POLICY AND ANALYSIS ciency and effectiveness of the entire Smi- internet and other amazing projects, She returned to the United States for research and development. And even for 15 years in total and conducted nu- Carole Neves continues about the thsonian. In the 12 years that I was there, planning and implementation are done few years and then after her marriage if the shuttle program was privatized, merous studies of major government Smithsonian’s unit that she had been I established a base capability which took in teams with multiple skill sets. moved to Brazil. The majority of time the government would be the main organizations, often at the request of leading during 12 years: “The Office probably four years and to get a full shop in Brazil, Dr. Neves taught at universi- customer at a higher cost. Because the Congress. for Policy and Analysis provides an took probably eight years.” The Office for Policy and Analysis ties. In 1970s her family moved to the space exploration is extremely ex- In a year 2000, Dr. Neves received a request objective, independent analytical ca- also worked on International level. United States. Her first job was for MIT pensive, and the private sector would from the new Director of the Smithsonian pabilities. It was established to impro- The analytical unit like this is kind When and why did you first come to Research Enterprises; as a result of an need to build new infrastructure and Institution. The U.S. Congress advised him to ve a decision making throughout the of an unusual practice in our country. Georgia and how did your contacts OPEC oil crises she worked forecasting try to make a profit, the costs to tax- build an analytical capability. C. Neves went whole Smithsonian. The Office conduc- Should a successful museum be inter- with the Georgian National Museum alternative energy scenarios in Central payers would grow. Three days after to the Smithsonian to strengthen their deci- ted strategic planning not only for the disciplinary today? start? America. After that experience, she report was delivered to the Congress, sion making. Institution as a whole but also, for the I really believe in interdisciplinarity. I I first came to Georgia not because of the worked briefly for the company from the Challenger accident occurred; several units working within the sys- think that it is required in almost every Georgian National Museum (in fact, I even Cambridge, Massachusetts, called Ur- NASA came back to the Academy and THE SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION tem. The Office regularly performed field. The most successful artists like Leo- did not know of its existence). I first came to ban Systems. In 1985, National Aca- asked the Academy to work with the The Smithsonian is the world’s largest visitors’ studies. It did a great deal of nardo Da Vinci or Michelangelo were very help establish Georgian Institute for Public demy of Public Administration asked General Samuel Phillips, who put a museum and research complex, con- the work on program evaluation and well schooled in many other domains Administration (GIPA). I worked for GIPA for her to work on a serious problem that man on the moon and ran the Apollo sisting of 19 museums and galleries, management studies. Occasionally, it including science. They used both their about 6 years. I made many friends in Ge- NASA was facing. Carole Neves recalls: Program. For almost two years, a com- the National Zoological Park, and nine conducted special studies at request right brains and left brains; and policy orgia, returned to Georgia periodically and “At that time the administration was mittee, headed by Phillips, studied research facilities. Physical visitors that of the Board of the Smithsonian or the analysis does that too. Moreover, succes- still enjoy teaching Policy and Analysis and interested in looking for the privati- NASA, a complex organization with come at the Smithsonian’s museums Secretary of the Smithsonian. Someti- sful people like Steve Jobs set an example Political Economy in Georgia. zation of the Space Shuttle. I thought numerous employees and contractors number approximately 30 million each mes the Office had close to 80 projects for the world. He had such a keen sense of A Georgian friend introduced me to the it was an intriguing problem, because located all over the US, inside out and year. The web visitors are well over 200 that staff and interns were working on design, and he was very knowledgeable museums, and I fell in love. I fell in love

GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM 47 because there are so many opportunities They learned a great deal about the are; many great scientists visited mu- to work with the museums and to impro- conservation of objects. They spent se- seums in their childhood and note that ve the museum scene here. I conclude veral months in the US and worked very the experience defined their careers. that Georgia’s culture is one of its grea- hard together with the American con- test exports and it can be even greater. servators who were highly experienced; What will be your advice to the lea- I also view culture as one of its greatest some are very famous. They carefully ders who define cultural policy in Ge- potential imports, because tourism can treated the rare objects and left them in orgia? really manifest itself in this area. Nature is wonderful condition. Cultural tourism can be tied to eco- breathtaking, geography is diverse, his- The Georgian specialists benefited in nomic development. Beyond a doubt, tory is rich, and the cultural objects are many ways: from seeing the installation Georgia has remarkable heritage. Great intriguing. Soon I will visit Cuba on a cul- and design of the exhibit, learning to partnerships should be established with tural tourism trip. Many Americans travel handle the processing of international the private sector. A strategic plan nee- there to visit artists, attend concerts, and loans, packing and crating, ensuring se- ds to be prepared for the development learn about traditions including food. curity and protection from internal cli- culture as a whole; and, of course, the I believe that Georgian culture is a criti- matic conditions, checking every single plan should be linked to tourism and cal asset that has not been fully explored aspect of the exhibit to make sure that economic development. We utilize the nor properly exploited in Georgia and the objects were displayed in a full glory. museums in many interesting ways and externally. It should be. And that goes for For the both sides it was a wonderful ex- have close relationships with many pri- the ballet, orchestra, arts and crafts, the- perience. vate sector businesses. For example, the ater, film making as well as for the mu- Air and Space Museum has very strong seums. Georgia has such talented people You know Georgia well starting from and stable relationships with Boeing Air- in the cultural arena. Unfortunately, I the difficult 1990s. Do you think that craft, Lockheed Martin and many other can’t read Georgian, so I can’t appreciate the museums and the cultural herita- producers of air and space related har- literature and poetry unless it is transla- ge of Georgia can play a significant dware and software. As a result of these ted. I read some of poems that have been role in the country’s development? partnerships, it has acquired not only a translated, and they are very moving.” I believe they already play a critical wonderful collections, but it has deve- In 2007-2011, the Georgian National role. However, I think there has to be loped strong educational programs and Museum had large scale reconstruc- much more interaction with the Minis- very supportive partnerships with both tion-renovation projects in its main try of Education and schools themsel- universities and air and space museums museum building. During this period, ves. I see school groups coming to the throughout the world. Many of the art a carefully selected part of Georgia’s museums, but I am sure much more museums have lasting relationships with archaeological heritage was presented can be done. Some of the museum numerous companies, media and philan- in the leading museums of Europe and educational staff need to go to schools thropists that sponsor exhibitions. The USA. Carole Neves was one of the initia- too. It will be better to generate more US government is very instrumental in tors of organizing this collection at the engaging materials and activities. It is fostering philanthropy of individuals and Smithsonian Institution’s Sackler Gal- not one way street for most successful businesses, primarily though tax breaks. lery. Her office also conducted special museums. We have large, well trained I know that BP has helped the National visitor study to evaluate this exhibition. education staffs in all of our museums Museum in a great deal, but I hope that C. Neves recalls: “Our Office conducted and research centers. They work very more private organizations and individu- visitor studies of this exhibition. We closely not only with the schools in the als, both local and international, step-up used many different measures of satis- Washington DC area but also with the to the plate and form some enduring par- faction. Scores were excellent. Visitors schools all over the US. Right now ma- tnerships with the museums, ballets, or- really appreciated the show. The most jor museums are very engaged in edu- chestras, theatres, because Georgia does Americans were surprised when they cation via the Internet. The Smithsonian have competitive advantage in this area. saw the exhibit, not only by the age, be- has generous support from one of the For small country, I am constantly impres- auty, and workmanship of the objects largest publishing companies, Pearson sed by the artistic capabilities and quality. themselves but also by the history. Visi- Publications, and Microsoft. Both in tors were very moved by the exhibit. kind support and funds are provided by Would you like to add something? For the Georgians it was a very good the private sector. The Smithsonian as- I really do not have much to add. I re- experience also. Fortunately, prior to pires to be a key player enhancing the cently retired and plan to spend more the exhibition, I had worked with three science education throughout the US. It time in Georgia. I will be happy to sup- Georgian conservators who have ser- is concerned with producing scientists port local cultural institutions in pursuit ved an internship in Washington DC. in the future as many other countries of their visions of development.

48 GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM 50 every minute of it. I have been a volunteer can find a common ground and that is the Public-private partnership is another since then in different forms and different heritage they share. I think the burden is important model of collaboration that shapes. The volunteer is somebody who on the museum in some ways to create is well-developed in the USA. Drown to Georgia can bring its set of skills to an organization. a structure and infrastructure for volun- Museum is a public institution and My set of skills are management, ability to teers. But, I think one critical point is that budget comes from government, but no strategize and do strategic planning for with economic hardship, when people public institution in a bigger picture can Volunteer > Natia Khuluzauri people. So, when I join variety of boards, I have to work so hard… it is very difficult always survive on its own. It is always hel- organize committees, do fundraisings, sys- to think that people could give off their pful to create a legal framework, so the Ms. Mahnaz Harrison has over 24 years experience as a leader manager. She has led the tem structures of a board and etc… that is time as frequently as in a financially more public institution can partner with pri- process and guided the clients to strategic action, performed management orientation a kind of volunteerism I do. I’ve voluntee- stable society like America… But, having vate institutions and private individuals and skills workshop for top tier management. Her health management and familiarity red in old age houses, also, because that’s said that, the spirit of wanting to do some- that are not looking for individual gains, with the political economy of the Caucasus led her to being awarded with the Fulbright where I felt that I could support most. I’ve thing for others, giving off yourself, edu- but are looking at individual investments. volunteered to feed the homeless every cating your children into how to give back If someone comes and says that has 600 Scholarship to Georgia where she worked with governmental and nongovernmental week, I helped cooking meals with others to the society, I think that is something items and wants to give it to the Museum Georgian stakeholders to draft the country’s Comprehensive Cancer Control Policy. She and was going out with my children to that yes, Georgians need to learn about in conditions that the Museum will put a co-edited the Country’s Non Communicable Disease Policy. With the Georgian National serve the homeless, sit with them and and take ownership of it. hall in his name would be an individual Museum (GNM) she became involved as a volunteer. talk to them because they are people like private donor – this is also the way of the Mahnaz Harrison you and I. So, with every step of this way You mentioned that you are not ori- public and privet partnership. You could I walked away with a gift of having being ginally from America; would you talk also look at foundations that can support Could you talk about your first con- National Museum provided to the outside Country that has the wealth and breadth with people. Volunteerism is a two-way about your home country and compare the Museum through the Museum Frien- nection to Georgia? Did you come world by a great vision of a great director of volunteers that Americans have. But is street – you give but you take. Take is not life here and there? ds Association. here to help the Country to develop and a great team. So, I am most proud to has come through many years of work and monetary – it is emotional, it’s satisfactory I was born and raised in Iran and after the health-care policy… be considered a volunteer at the Museum dedication of men and women, who were to your soul because you are touching so- Iranian revolution I left for United States. I What would you say to the organiza- Not initially. Actually, I came first to and this is what it matters most to me willing to give off their time, give off the- mebody else’s sole. I think with a museum always say that I am drown to Georgia be- tion that can support to the Museum, Georgia in 2002 as a philanthropist and when it comes to my relationship to the mselves, give off their money and at the in here I have grown not only being very cause of life in past. I see many similarities why should they invest in the Museum? found a Country that was at the verge Georgian National Museum. same time to make a cause to go forward. proud of the institution, I have learned to in my native homeland and Georgian way Georgia is now known in many parts of of being a failed state. We had a family This is most driven out of Good Samaritan like and respect the way in which people of living, Georgian warmth and also, cultu- the globe because of its national herita- foundation and through the family foun- You are not just a volunteer; you have attitude of first Americans but it’s more see their roles and their involvement with ral heritage. But I also, actually, just recently ge through the exhibits of the museum dation every year we gave thousands of become inseparable part of the GNM than that. I am an emigrant to the America the Museum. And this gives me a sense of have learnt about a massive army of wo- that has gone around the world. I do not dollars to the philanthropic organization team during those years. How your rela- and I was in awe about the notion of vo- pride that makes me to come back to the men volunteers in Iran. Hundred thousand think a country less than four million pe- to be spent on culture and health and tionship with the GNM started? lunteerism and what a volunteer does. So, Museum. of women volunteers in 350 cities and hun- ople could actually start talking about welfare of communities around Georgia. In 2004 I came to Georgia for the Ame- the very first thing I did when I arrived in dred villages were recruited by the Minis- cultural heritage if they don’t take it out As for my own professional work and pas- rican-Georgian Business council meeting, United States, was actually look for a volun- Have you received the emotional sa- try of Health from each neighborhood to and don’t show it around. Georgians sion has been on healthcare – palliative where I met the General Director of the Ge- teer opportunity. I was a full time student, tisfaction you were talking about from go around to 50-80 households and their would want to make sure that how Ge- care and hospice. I eventually became orgian National Museum. He invited us to professional and mother, but I decided to the Museum? communities and talk about women and orgia is perceived in a world through its involved in palliative and hospice care take a tour of the building of the S. Janashia spend a half a day every week voluntee- Absolutely. When I see step by step, little children health. In the end they have be- national heritage is secured. So, for the in Georgia and tried my best to connect Museum of Georgia. I remember very well ring to learn what it is about volunteerism. by little changes that have come as a result come the strongest force of volunteerism Georgian corporationsit should be their Georgians in palliative and hospice with what this building was looking like then, And I learnt that basically people come to of continues talks and meetings that gives I have ever heard. These women took on pride to want to support and partner their American counterparts including with broken steps and broken walls; it was volunteer, because they feel that they have me a great deal of satisfaction. I think as a themselves to talk about the health pre- with the museum, to provide continuous invitations for them to come to the US… not the way it looks today. David asked me a desire to help others. They have a desire volunteer you need to go in without se- vention issues, about not-smoking, about and sustaining support, so that museum if I would help the organization with its mis- to be a part of a community, to give off the- rious expectations. You go to give and wish eating healthier. They were not working, and its collection would continue telling More than 10 years passed since then, sion and going forward and I took pride in mselves without expecting a monetary re- and hope for the best and at a point if you they were housewives and thanks to this the Georgian story around the world and how do you see Georgia today? the spirit of volunteerism and got involved turn. Retired people instead of sitting and don’t think that you are getting emotional their marriage and life has improved, be- to the next generation of Georgians. Today, 12 years later the Country is in with the Museum from writing grants to staring in the air come and help others in and internal satisfaction from it, then that cause they are doing now things that they much better shape, it has its spot on the fundraise for infrastructure, development many ways. volunteer role is no longer for you and you themselves are proud off, because they Would you like to add something? globe. It is on the London stock market and of the staff, to training, to bringing people got to move on to the something else. feel useful. This is something that can be I think it would be nice if every Geor- it is known to many communities around into the Museum and etc. Do you think that to allow yourself to done in Georgia, army of mothers and fa- gian would give – you don’t have money the world and one of the vehicles in which be a volunteer you need to have a finan- What would you say about the level of thers to get involve on healthy lifestyle and to give, you give off your time, give off it had managed to be everywhere around Being a volunteer means not being in- cial stability? volunteerism in Georgia? keep the population healthy. To be a vo- your collection, give off yourself to make the world is the Museum exhibitions. terested in monetary return. Could you Partially yes, this comes from comfort to The spirit of volunteerism is something lunteer gives you actually the satisfaction something that speaks to your heritage, Museum is the heart of the knowledge, please, talk little more about voluntee- have financial security, that you have mon- that needs to be created in the Georgian of being very useful to the others. Iranian your identity and your being as a Ge- culture and people and various exhibits rism and the benefit you get from being thly payment, you do not have to worry society and particularly within the Mu- women have taken upon themselves to orgian and there is not a better vehicle that have traveled outside of Georgia had a volunteer? about working – that is true, but when I seum. Museum is a nice place to actually really lead this into that direction, and this than the Georgian National Museum for brought people to understanding that Generally speaking, the miracle of volun- did all of that I did not have financial secu- recruit and cultivate volunteers. Because, is fascinating even for me. I think, Georgian this. In return you get back pride and sa- Georgia is a country, has a language and teerism is something that is at the mastery rity, I was just a student and I was working there is culture, there is communality, women need to take a little chapter out of tisfaction for the opportunity to introdu- rich culture that goes back thousands of level in the United States. I traveled around full time as a teacher. But, I wanted to be people of different ethnic backgrounds, that book and definitely start doing that on ce your cultural identity and your herita- years – this is the image that the Georgian the world and I don’t think that there is a a part of this American magic and I loved men and women, young and old, they all their own today. ge to the rest of the world.

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History Told Through Treasure

Exhibition > Natia Likokeli

Necklace, Trialeti, first half Temple-rings, Akhalgori Bracelet, Sairkhe, 2nd half of Detail of headdress decoration, "Many streams issue from Caucasus bearing gold-dust so fine as to be invisible. The inhabitants put of the 2nd millennium B.C. hoard, 4th century B.C. the 4th century B.C. Vani, end of the 4th century B.C. sheepskins with shaggy fleece into the stream and thus collect the floating particles. Perhaps the golden fleece of Aetes was of this kind." Appian, The Mithridatic Wars

Goblet, Trialeti, Earrings, Armaziskhevi, Necklace, Armaziskhevi, Signet-ring of Aspavruk Necklace, Armaziskhevi, 2nd millennium B.C. 4th century A.D. 2nd-3rd centuries A.D. the Pitiakhsh, Armaziskhe- 2nd-3rd centuries A.D. vi, 2nd-3rd centuries A.D.

fter a break that lasted several ters found hidden treasures in unrea- nishing skills. We perceive the grand jewelry, cameos, tableware decorated Parnavaz and the beautiful Seraphita, holders are made to ensure the arti- years, the Simon Janashia Mu- chable places. This is the sensation we kingdom of Colchis through unbe- with precious and semi-precious sto- noblemen, great warriors, goldsmiths facts are as visible as possible. Epochs seum of Georgia presented an feel when stepping into the Museum's lievably refined riches so exquisite it nes, and writing tools from the 3rd and – and the country itself, boisterous flow seamlessly as you gradually move A th exhibition telling Georgia's ancient Archaeological Treasure; however seems they couldn’t have been made 4 centuries. and lively. We see foreign diplomats through time, from one display to ano- history through the sparkling of gold, here we participate in the adventure by mortals – gold and silver jewel- Standing before each display, we bring offerings to Georgian kings, and ther, realizing only at the end of the silver and gemstones. The name of the ourselves. In the carefully mounted li- ry, a silver belt, colored beads, seals can visualize the leaders and priests noblemen order luxurious items from exhibition that its creators took you exhibition is just as simple and mag- ghting, the spectacular culture of the and miniature sculptures. A treasure from ancient times and the Argonauts local or foreign craftsmen, and Egyp- on a trip through history – that they nificent as the artifacts displayed. It great mounds of the Trialeti comes to from Akhalgori is composed of disc- who sailed to Colchis, a land rich in tian, Syrian, Greek and Roman trade showed you the essence of Georgia's carries the sense of mystery that we life in the form of ritual gold and silver -shaped plates and temple pendants gold, to secure the famous Golden Fle- side-by-side with local vendors. ancient past, to create a foundation experienced as children, when we goblets, an incrusted necklace or the of pure gold. The is ece. We see their gods – the great King The style of the exhibition is discreet for understanding how Georgian cul- read adventure books where charac- details of a banner made with asto- represented by a multitude of colorful Aetes and Medea of Colchis – King – the lighting, displays, props or item ture has become so unique.

GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM 53 54

ques. Incrusted artifacts of natural pre- However, typical of this kind of historical cious and semi-precious minerals were document, the general technological pro- widely used in the jewelers' workshops cesses described in the manuscript are of the ancient world. Such minerals are far from being detailed enough to ensure mentioned in the Bible as the “12 Biblical satisfactory results when the instructions gemstones”. Gradually, man-made plates are followed. Researchers on these techni- of artificial glass resembling these pre- ques have to study other available histo- cious minerals in color started appearing rical documents simultaneously and carry as well. It has been confirmed that the pa- out numerous empirical tests to discover lette that developed matched all 12 Bibli- technologies forgotten and lost over the cal gemstones, and was used in medieval centuries. Byzantine-Georgian enamel artifacts. In the original manuscript, a whole Within the framework of the project chapter is devoted to making cloisonné scientific research and laboratory tests enamel. When describing this process, were conducted, based on two very im- Theophilus focuses on making the gold portant historical manuscripts: The first base for inlays, which provides us with was the medieval treatise "On Various important information. However, his Arts" by a Benedictine monk, Theophilus description of fused jewelry glass is very Presbyter, who lived and worked around superficial, so apparently he is less fami- the 11th-12th centuries in Germany, and liar with this technique. Thus he takes the second was the treatise "On Mixing the role of observer of the operation Oils and Chemical Reactions" by the 18th rather than a practicing craftsman. This century Georgian King Vakhtang VI. shows that there were no craftsmen or The description of the processes of workshops skilled in making and colo- working precious metals – gold and sil- ring glass at that time in the geopolitical The Discovery of the “Colchian hood”, ver – and of the necessary filler substance area where Theophilus lived, and that he lead by Theophilus Presbyter is a price- himself did not have thorough knowled- less treasure for researchers in this field. ge of fusing colored jewelry glass. Sheath of dagger, Armaziskhevi, a tool that shaped the art of Medieval nd rd 2 -3 centuries A.D. Cloisonné Enamel Technology

Research > Ermile Maghradze A remarkably beautiful way of decorating metalwork, cloisonné enamel originated as an exceptional technique in the 2nd-3rd century and was practiced until the 1450s in the Byzantine Empire as well as in Georgia. By the 10th-11th century, it had penetrated Kievan Rus' to the north. After the 15th century, however, cloisonné enamel technology had disappeared.

n 2013, with UNESCO's support, the mel. Enamel artifacts discovered by ar- in the center of the Aragvispiri pectoral. Georgian National Museum carried chaeologists in Georgia have confirmed Newer cloisonné enamel artifacts star- out a project entitled "Retracing Lost that colored glass had been produced in ted to appear again in the 8th century. I th th Technologies – Cloisonné Enamel", with this area since the 6 -5 centuries B.C. From a technical viewpoint, the corners- the goal of restoring the lost medieval An advanced level of glass production tone of cloisonné technology is the very technology of cloisonné enamel. was a precondition for the development thin gold base-plate with metal partitions The study of surviving cloisonné ena- of cloisonné enamel in the region. soldered to it vertically to form cells. The mel artifacts has made it possible to The early cloisonné enamel artifacts key purpose of the partitions, apart from identify a large array of technical tools from approximately 2nd-4th century A.D., forming a structure, is to separate the ena- from ancient shops where medieval were exemplified by a medallion decora- mel inlays of different colors and create a craftsmen worked colored glass or pre- ting the sheath of Pitiakhsh Asparukh's graphic image, which could formerly be A medallion of Simon the Apostle from A medallion of Simon the Apostle from pared precious metals to decorate ena- dagger, the image of an enamel rosette carried out only by incrustation techni- the Khakhuli triptych, 12th century A.D., Original the Khakhuli triptych, 12th century A.D., Copy

GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM 55 quity – 16 centuries before Theophilus – has survived to this day. We can suppose that such muffles in a variety of sizes and shapes were used by Colchian goldsmi- ths for creating various kinds of jewelry and other objects. When the project, "Retracing Lost Tech- nologies – Cloisonné Enamel” was being implemented, and to confirm that all de- tails of the forgotten medieval cloisonné enamel technology had been recovered fully, a demonstration object was made. A medallion of Simon the Apostle from the Most Holy Mother of God triptych in Khakhuli was selected for this purpose. The soldering operations performed to make a copy of this medallion were car- ried out using a reconstructed Colchian hood and the soldering was done in ac- Bracelet, Mtskheta, 4th century A.D. cordance with the description provided by Theophilus Presbyter. The quality of soldering turned out to be very high: All partitions were firmly and properly sol- dered to the base in a multi-stage firing process. The solder described by Theo- Unlike Theophilus, Vakhtang VI of Ge- rious colors. However, the colorful glazes philus. In the chapter of the treatise that philus is undoubtedly the one used in orgia provides us with significant details are not used for cloisonné enamel but for explains firing gold plate with mounted early antiquity and the Hellenistic period on fusing jewelry glass, and his descrip- imitating Biblical gems. enamel, Theophilus describes a “hood” to solder filigree (granulation) or incrus- Iron hood, Vani, second half of the 2nd century B.C. Quadifolium with Crucifixion, tion of the process of making colored A project was carried out in the cloi- with a tray that a smith has to use to ted inlaid particles. This is a so-called re- the Khakhuli triptych, 8th century glass fills many gaps in the study of the sonné enamel laboratory in the city of complete the firing. It is apparently very active solder and Theophilus describes lost medieval technology of cloisonné Gori (East Georgia), where a workshop important that Theophilus is describing a method for making it artificially. Such enamel. In the passages of his treatise was set up based on the notes and des- one of the types of muffles (a clay or iron solder can also be found in natural form that are specifically devoted to fusing criptions from these two historical texts, box inserted into a furnace in order to from chrysocolla ("chrysocolla" is a Gre- colored glass, he clearly and convincin- and all the tools for working metal and fire an article) that was widespread in the ek word that combines the words "gold" gly describes the process of working glass were re-created by using details medieval goldsmith workshops. and "glue", or "adhesive"). the raw materials and fusing "colorful described by Theophilus Presbyter and As a result of reconstructing the hood Thus, the Colchian hood and the esta- cups" from them. He also describes and Vakhtang VI. Numerous tests were car- that was described, and then testing it, blishment of its purpose is of great sig- draws a wind-powered furnace used for ried out and the results confirmed that we could determine the purpose of the nificance, allowing us to evoke material St. Peter, Icon of the Martvili Virgin, St. Virgin, St. Theodor, making colored glass, as it ensures the it is indeed possible to make enamel by Colchian iron hood discovered in Vani, evidence when re-creating ancient gol- 9th century A.D. the Khakhuli Triptych, the Khakhuli Triptych, high temperatures necessary. It is also following the technical processes descri- which is similar in function, appearan- dsmith workshops that existed on the 9th century A.D. 9th century A.D. important that Vakhtang VI also termed bed by both Vakhtang VI and Theophilus. ce and material to the one described territory of ancient Colchis. Unique arti- colored glass with the names of noble Parallel to these experiments, research by Theophilus. A copy of the Colchian facts were made that are today on dis- gems. For example, "if you wish to make carried out on scientific literature and cloisonné hood was made and tested, play in the Georgian National Museum. a cup the color of ruby", "making chryso- archaeological materials contributed to which showed that the Colchian “hood" A more complete picture is taking shape lite", "turquoise blue", "making sapphire the study. One very important archaeo- is a goldsmith's tool – an iron muffle. before our eyes – one that evokes many blue", "making a color similar to emerald" logical discovery in Western Georgia was If placed underneath a pile of burning centuries of uninterrupted tradition of and so on. a perforated, cone-shaped iron “hood” coals as described by Theophilus, high goldsmith workshops in territories now Thus the knowledge was ancient and and a tray discovered in 1966 in the re- temperatures are achieved inside the part of Georgia. This tradition produced the technology described in Theophilus’ mains of a city near Vani in the historical muffle and a highly skilled jeweler can numerous and remarkable examples of treatise was a sacred tradition that conti- region of Colchis. perform work on glass, gold or silver. cloisonné enamel that were later re-cre- nued to the era of Vakhtang VI. The King We made a link between this artifact It is highly significant that this tool ated in the Early and described many different mixtures used and a type of “hood” used to mount ena- used by ancient Colchians to solder pre- in Georgia, contributing a significant tre- to make glass and for fusing glass of va- mel, which had been described by Theo- cious metals in the period of early anti- asure to world culture. Pendant triptych with Deisis, Martvili, Pectoral, Vani, th th th 56 GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM 8 -9 centuries A.D. beginning of the 4 century B.C. 58

Lamp with the images of Ganymede and Zeus transfi- Three-nozzle lamp, decorated with four figures of dancing gured into an eagle, bronze, Vani, 3rd-1st centuries B.C. Erotes, bronze, Vani, 3rd-1st centuries B.C.

Six-nozzle Lamp, representing Dionysus' triumph in India, decorated with Incense Burner with images of elephants, bronze, images of elephants and figures of Dionysus, Heracles and Ariadne holding Vani, 3rd-1st centuries B.C. From Excavation torches, bronze, Vani, 3rd-1st centuries B.C. to Exhibition Halls

efore finding a home in the col- were most likely produced in the 3rd to from Vani were presented in many lea- Research > Nino Chimakadze lections of the Georgian Natio- 1st centuries B.C. However, those that ding museums of the world. Bnal Museum (GNM), most of the survived in the hoard had been buried Among the objects treated at the Before finding a home in the collections of the Georgian National Museum, most of the items discovered items discovered in Georgia as a result in a special pit dug into parent material Getty Villa's Conservation Institute was as a result of archaeological excavations in Georgia are taken to the museum's Archaeological Restoration of archaeological excavations are tre- in the 1st century B.C. The archaeologist a three-nozzle lamp decorated with Laboratory. Sometimes, after cleaning and treatment, valuable artifacts that were covered in rust, salts or ated at the Museum's Archaeological who conducted the excavations of the an image of an eagle and a mythologi- soil for centuries change their appearance so much that they can hardly be recognized as the same object. Restoration Laboratory. It takes several hoard, Dimitri Akhvlediani, linked the cal personage Ganymede, as well as a month or more to restore and conserve hoard containing the artifacts to the three-nozzle lamp, decorated with four an object. Artifacts are often deformed destruction of the temple city in the 1st figures of dancing Erotes. The Metropo- or damaged, so restoring their original century B.C., when they must have been litan Museum of Art restoration labo- shape means careful and difficult work hidden away in the time of danger. This ratory examined an incense burner de- over a long period of time with specia- is indicated by the pit having been dug corated with images of elephants, and lized tools. in a hurry. a six-nozzle lamp adorned with images Bronze and iron artifacts from a ho- A large part of the hoard was treated of human busts and elephant heads. ard, containing true masterpieces of at the Georgian National Museum. Ite- With the help of advanced technology, Hellenistic art, discovered in Vani in ms of various forms, large ritual vessels, it was possible to thoroughly study and 2007 are being studied at the Labora- bronze legs of kline, lamps and other restore these artifacts. In addition to tory of the GNM. Archaeological excava- bronze artifacts were restored in 2007- being unique objects of art, these items tions have confirmed that Vani still has 2014. provide specialists with an exceptional many secrets waiting to be uncovered. From 2009, the Georgian National opportunity to understand historical It is notable for its treasures of luxurious Museum has been cooperating on tech- processes and cultural development. gold items as well as for its bronze and nical study and restoration of artifacts Specialists continue studying these tre- iron artifacts. In 2007, the unique ma- with the Getty Villa, the Getty Conser- asures both in Georgia and in the United terials unearthed in the area prompted vation Institute and the Metropolitan States. If these suppositions hold true historians and archaeologists, as well Museum of Art known for their research soon new facts about Georgia during the as researchers of ancient religions to and conservation. In the frame of this Hellenistic era will be uncovered, which reconsider many notions. The artifacts cooperation archaeological discoveries will then lead to new research.

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Dmanisi The National Gallery he National Gallery re-opened its doors to the public on completely renew the National Gallery. After a preparatory sta- cientific research is one of the most important ac- how the spotlight of international attention focused here June 5, 2010. This recent addition to our museum sys- ge, they planned concepts for the new Gallery, and by the time tivities of the National Museum, and today the ho- when a discovery of universal importance was made. Ttem encountered several important challenges, but with the Ministry of Culture allocated material resources for restora- Srizons for scientific research have vastly changed This meant we could develop infrastructures to permit the help of the Georgian National Museum staff and leadership tion, the concept and the plan for the Gallery were ready, whi- and expanded. By increasing research, this important more research and education, making a contribution to obstacles were overcome – renovation of the building and the ch meant the project could be carried out smoothly, and the Georgian institution can familiarize the world with the the global scientific community. poor condition of the collections headed the list of problems to Gallery re-opened in 2010. history of this key region, its great civilization and new The masterplan of the architectural and museological solve. It appeared that not only the Museum had been victim The architectural project of the renovation and extension discoveries being made. We are creating a new center of project of the Dmanisi Museum-Reserve was prepared of the financial crisis, but it had no resources to carry out signi- of the Dimitri Shevardnadze National Gallery was prepared science where foreign and Georgian scholars can carry by the French architectural company "studio Milou archi- ficant projects at the Gallery. by the Portuguese architectural company Ainda Arquitectu- out research together. Dmanisi is a perfect example of tecture". It is with pride that the Georgian National Museum staff re- ra Studio (Porto) and the Georgian architectural company members the hard work and dedication that contributed to Arsi (Tbilisi).

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Still Life Feel Pirosmani Pirosmani, Artist of the Georgian People

Art > Ekaterine Kiknadze Threshing At the turn of the 20th century, Tbilisi was located at the crossroads of Asia and Europe and characterized equally by Eastern exuberance and European sophistication. Houses with elaborately carved wooden balconies alternated nation of tradition coupled with a sense and universal themes. This is a trait of with Art Nouveau architecture, while chokhosani, or men from the mountains wearing traditional Caucasian coats, of inner freedom. many great painters. The circle of those appreciating The interest towards him in Georgia the chokha, mingled with silver-belted kintos, a social group found in urban areas, made up of local tradesmen, or Pirosmani’s art was just as full of con- and beyond was always great. In 1969 other locals who spent their time in taverns and wore their own distinctive attire. These populations mingled in the trasts as his painting – intellectuals on an exhibition of Pirosmani's work was streets with ladies and gentlemen adorned with the latest Parisian fashion. one hand and local inn-keepers on the hosted at the Louvre. Since 2007, a col- other. The artist Kirill Zdanevich and his lection of 150 of his works from the Ge- brother Ilia Zdanevic, along with the orgian National Museum has been exhi- iko Pirosmani, clad in sober clo- rosmani lived among tavern-keepers and him "Count". Some say his reserve was Russian futuristic artist of French origin bited abroad in France, Turkey, Lithuania, thes, carried all of Georgian cul- tradesmen in the Asian part of Tbilisi, he typical of the Eastern region of Kakheti, Mikhail Le Dantu discovered Pirosma- Ukraine, the Netherlands. In 2012, the Nture in his eyes and mind, and perceived the world like a European mo- and especially in Kiziki, where Pirosmani ni, painting in a traditional Tbilisi inn year that marked the 150th anniversary of spent most of his life in this city of vi- dernist. was born, an area that that never knew called "Varyag". Le Dantu's first words his birth, UNESCO promoted many com- brant contrasts. His art is the bridge that For great people, the spiritual world, serfdom. It is perhaps not coincidental about him were "This is today’s Giot- memorative events for Pirosmani, inclu- connects medieval Georgian painting reflection and everyday life are rarely that another monument of 20th century to!" For these artists, Pirosmani's pain- ding the largest exhibition of the artist’s with the art of the 20th century. The two separated. This is the way it was with Georgian culture, the writer Vazha Psha- tings "Queen Tamar", "Deer", "Hunter works ever held at the Georgian National poles coexist – the monumental silence Pirosmani – often homeless and alone, vela, also came from a region free of with a Rifle", "Erekle II" and "Shepherd" Museum’s Dimitri Shevardnadze Natio- and spirituality of frescos on one hand he was also a man of incredible innate serfdom – Pshavi. Both men expressed evoked a close association with mo- nal Gallery. 's works are and brilliant artistic technique on the dignity. His pride and reserved man- exceptional individuality in their artistic dern European art in that they equally presently on display in this gallery and in other. His style showed that although Pi- ner prompted his acquaintances to call expression and carried a strong combi- and forcefully evoked both national the Sighnaghi Museum. Roe Deer in the Landskape

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Self-portrait Imereti Landskape Imereti - My Mother Constructive-decorative Composition

the United States. This epoch, that he the mother ("Imereti – my Mother") and ciples of Socialist Realism. He was finally Twentieth Century Classic termed "an era of machinism and ci- his organic abstractions may be consi- dismissed from the Academy of Arts in nematography" inspired him to crea- dered a subconscious representation of 1948. The artist died of a heart attack in Art > Ketevan Kintsurashvili te new techniques. He used glass and the female subject. 1952. metal pieces that had accumulated in In the abstract paintings he created In today’s era of 3-D it is striking to note On 18 May, 2013, International Museum Day, a retrospective exhibition of David Kakabadze (1889-1952) opened at the his studio while working on the projec- before he left Paris, the artist depic- how progressive David Kakabadze's ide- Georgian National Museum’s Dimitri Shevardnadze National Gallery. tor, to create collages. On the back of ted what appears to be a cell under a as were for his time. He worked at crea- some of these, he attached light bulbs microscope, or images of space seen ting new methods to solve the problems and used pieces of mirrors, glass, len- through a telescope. These works con- of depicting space at two-dimensional ses and flashing elements to give dep- vey the notion that the natural micro- surface. This exceptional representa- avid Kakabadze depicted the gia had become an independent repu- ter of the world, Kakabadze could ex- th to his compositions, creating a new and macro-worlds obey the same rules tive of Modernism left inventions that world as if he were flying over blic. His work was shown at the Temple of press his vision in a multitude of forms. sense of dynamism. of organizational order. This order is were so innovative that they have con- Dthe hills of his native Imereti. As Glory, today’s National Gallery, as part of He started with Cubism, then moved In 1921-1927, Kakabadze created a a corner stone of Kakabadze's entire tinued to exist as a process even in the an artist of the era of Cubism and Abs- an exhibition of Georgian artists. The Ge- on to abstract art, organically integra- series of biomorphic abstractions. In his work – nature and the origin of life are Post-modernist era. In 2011, his project tract art he had a sharpened sense of orgian Government then sent Kakabadze ting elements of Dadaism and surrea- work during this period the contour of constant sources of inspiration. for a holographic portrait of Stalin was time and space and translated his ho- and several other young artists to Paris, list abstraction. an embryo or vegetation is often discer- In 1927, David Kakabadze returned to implemented realized posthumously in listic perception of visible reality into where he stayed from 1919 to 1927. He was fascinated by the technolo- ned. His sculpture “Z” (part of the Yale his homeland. He had left an indepen- Sweden, with support from the Munici- corresponding imagery. Divided into When he learned he was going to gical novelties and while still studying University Art Gallery collection, USA) is dent Georgia where Modernist art and li- pality of Lund. In spite of the avant-gar- colorful segments, the surface of the Paris, Kakabadze set himself a goal: to at the Gymnasium, he saved to buy a an example of this organic abstraction. terature were on the rise, and came back de, experimental nature of his creation, land in his paintings covers the slopes study new trends in art and have his camera, which he constantly carried Apart from student exercises, Kakaba- to a Soviet country where avant-garde however, all of Kakabadze’s work was like a carpet. own say in them. He fulfilled his aim with him. Cinema also captivated him. dze never painted female models, yet proclivities were punished. He worked based on classical, fundamental canons. After graduating from the Kutaisi Gym- not only by learning what the newest While in Paris, in 1922-1923, he inven- the female subject is present in the as a stage and film artist, taught at the At the beginning of the 20th century, nasium in 1915, David Kakabadze studied trends were, but by being one of the ted a stereo movie projector that could artist's work in non-traditional forms. Academy of Arts, published theoretical as David Kakabadze stood on a hill in his simultaneously at the Faculty of Sciences first to create organic or biomorphic create a three-dimensional effect wi- His model was "terra", the Earth, he rare- essays and made a film about Georgian native Imereti, his eyes saw a new era to at Petersburg University and at the priva- abstraction. He is also one of the first thout using special glasses. He had his ly painted sky or water in his Imeretian architectural monuments. He later retur- come, yet he perceived the world as a te art studio of Dmitriyev-Kavkazskiy. He artists to integrate elements of Art invention patented in many countries landscapes. Kakabadze generalized the ned to landscape painting, however he true classic, creating avant-garde art ba- returned to Georgia in 1918, when Geor- Deco in his work. Living in the art cen- of Western Europe, Great Britain and idea of motherland through images of was criticized for disregarding the prin- sed on eternal values.

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Dimitri Ermakov Photographer and Collector

Project > Lika Mamatsashvili, Nino Tabutsadze, Lika Gudushauri

The geographical scope of Dimitri Ermakov’s photographic series is a constant source of wonder – covering Turkey, Persia, Bulgaria, Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan and many provinces of the North Caucasus, not to mention Central Asia. Ermakov travelled widely in the Caucasus, taking detailed pictures of the populations, how they lived and dressed, the scenery, historical edifices such as fortresses, towers, churches, as well as the religious and everyday objects of the Caucasian peoples. His pictures form a unique photographic record of Caucasian history, ethnography, archaeology and culture.

GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM 67 imitri Ermakov (1846-1916) was When the photographer was born in lents met with widespread recognition – a great artistic photographer 1846 his father, Lodovico Cambiaggio, orders for his work began to pour in. Sub- Dwho created rich, original and worked in Crimea, and later in the She- sequently, the Shah of Persia invited him all-embracing photographic chronicles. makha area in the Province of Baku. His to become his personal photographer, The major part of his photographic le- mother was from the Russian Molokan a distinction highlighted in Ermakov’s gacy is found in the photo collections Christian minority in Tbilisi, and it is by biography. He participated in many in- of the Georgian National Museum. her surname that Ermakov is generally ternational exhibitions and earned 36 Ermakov’s works may be considered a known. Although Dimitri Ermakov was an top photographic awards at international photographic guide to Georgian life and “illegitimate” child, his father took special exhibitions held in Russia and abroad. to the reality of the second half of the care of him, and it is said that in the 1860s, During the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-78 19th and the first quarter of the 20th cen- under the direction of his father, Dimitri Ermakov served as photographic war jour- tury. Apart from books, photographic ca- studied and passed his qualifications at nalist working on the front lines on the secret talogues, cameras and other objects, his the topographic school in , Ge- instructions of the Russian Tsar. These photos collection includes 119 albums, 25,819 orgia. His father also introduced him into continue to be of great interest to experts, photos, 15,536 glass negatives and Georgian elite society. especially military historians and analysts. He 27,655 stereoscopic images. As a collec- Ermakov probably started his photo- often took photos of staged battle scenes, as tor, he acquired nearly all the most his- graphic activity in 1866 or 1867, although photographic technology was not sufficien- torically significant photographic works he most likely worked as a photographer tly advanced to photograph rapid move- of the 19th century. For example in his even earlier. In 1870 he was chosen as an ments in battles. collection we find works by such famous associate member of the Society for the In 1880 Ermakov returned to Tbilisi and opened a photo studio in the city centre, on Golovin Avenue, where he worked In 2000, the Georgian National Museum, in collaboration successfully in different genres. He was extremely versatile and maintained close with the Nederlands Fotomuseum in Rotterdam, began a major relations with well-known historians and conservation project for the photo collections of the Georgian archaeologists in Georgia and Russia. He National Museum, supported by the European Foundation participated in numerous archaeological and ethnographic expeditions, where he Horizon in Naarden. Digitalization, restoration and conservation documented Georgian and Caucasus-wi- were carried out, and as a result a modern photo archive de historical sites, including frescos, chur- emerged, created in accordance with international standards. The ch plates, books and manuscripts. In 1910 he went on an expedition to project lasted ten years and was finalized in 2010, thus injecting Svaneti organized by Ekvtime Takaishvili new life into the National Museum’s photo collections. where he took approximately a thousand photos depicting many architectural and archaeological locations. A large number photographers as Alexander Roinashvili, Promotion of Caucasian Fine Arts, and of these sites are lost today and survive Vladimir Barkanov, Dimitri Nikitin, Edu- beginning with that year he made several only in Ermakov’s photos. His skill was ard Klar, Edward Westley, Alexander En- expeditions to Persia, although it is not such that he could embark on a photogra- gel, Antoin Sevruguin, Boris Mishchenko, known how frequently or for how long. phic project without directions from the as well as the Italian mountaineer and For some time he owned a photography specialists and produce photos of high photographer, Vittorio Sella. studio in Teheran. scientific standards that could be used for In Ermakov’s collections we also find In 1907 he became a member of the Cau- research purposes. He gained valuable stereoscopic photos from Europe, Ame- casian Section of the Moscow Archaeologi- experience working with scientists and rica and even Japan. There are European cal Society and in 1912 he founded the Tiflis scholars, and became a first-class photo- photos of a light-hearted nature, along Society of Fine Arts. grapher in scientific circles. His photos of with those demonstrating what photo- Earlier, in 1874, to great and unexpec- historical sites, frescos, cultural artefacts graphy was already capable of doing. Ho- ted acclaim, Ermakov presented his pic- and objects of unique architectural signi- wever, Ermakov’s greatest contribution is tures in France at the Tenth Photographic ficance clearly show he knew how to use to have preserved a kind of comprehen- Exhibition organized by the Paris Pho- the best vantage point to record detail sive catalogue of the work of photogra- tographic Society. There was great stir and convey a sense of space. phers active in Georgia during his lifeti- about the artistic qualities of his photos Ermakov published two catalogues in me. in the Parisian press, and very soon his ta- Russian, in 1896 and in 1901, in which he

68 GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM 69 arranged his photos alphabetically and nology. In one, he painted the reverse Bringing Ermakov’s life-time works thematically. The themes he chose for his of a negative in black, which resulted in together was not easy. During the albums reflected personal preferences, the photo becoming more distinct and photographer’s life the Georgian scho- but he later offered the photos for sale with heightened contrast. He almost ne- lar Ekvtime Takaishvili tried to collect his to individuals interested in his photogra- ver edited a film he shot, choosing rather photos, but it was far from simple. Follo- phic work, and to a variety of different to fill the frame with a composition. In- wing Ermakov’s death in 1916, his heir organizations. From the standpoint of -depth perception and the creation of a decided to sell the photographer’s collec- the 21st century, some photos bear ge- sense of space are typical features of his tion, which led Takaishvili to start procee- ographically misleading captions since creative style. He carefully followed the dings to purchase the complete archives borders have changed over time, due to development of new techniques and so this national treasure could be preser- major events. made active use of them in his work – he ved in Georgia. During Ermakov’s lifetime It was above all Tbilisi that was at the tried to construct a new camera lens and the Georgian patron of the arts, Pavle Tu- centre of Ermakov’s interest. He produced to create a mobile laboratory. manishvili, had ordered thirty albums for a detailed chronicle of the city, situated at Key events took place in the last de- which Ermakov photographed Georgian the cross-roads of two civilizations – Euro- cade of the 19th and early years of the churches and antiquities. Tumanishvili pean and Asian. It is shown as a centre of 20th century and influenced the life of later passed these to the Historical and commerce and trade, and his photographs society in Georgia. Many are reflected Ethnographic Society of Georgia. show details of life in the city and serve as in Ermakov’s work, for example the ope- Ermakov’s collection was finally pur- historical documentation – to this day they ning of the first industrial exhibition in chased with the combined support of are source of wonder. He took great inte- 1896 in Tbilisi, which contributed to the the Historical and Ethnographic Society rest in types of public transport in both the importation and distribution of the la- of Georgia, Tbilisi State University, Ge- Asian and European parts of Tbilisi – we test technologies for the working popu- orgians living in Baku, and the Patron see transport suited to narrow streets like lation of Tbilisi and Georgia. Similarly, on of the Arts, Akaki Khoshtaria. Today the horse- and ox-carts and mules, and we see 25 May, 1892, Ermakov documented the collection belongs to the nation and is coaches serving the European part of the unveiling of one of the first monuments preserved in the Georgian National Mu- city. In 1883 the “horse railway”, or Konka in Tbilisi – a statue of Pushkin. His photos seum, the National Archives and other was introduced – consisting of an open of that period also show the celebration institutions. carriage with moveable chairs, and drawn of the Epiphany with the consecration In 2000, the Georgian National Mu- by four horses. of the water, and others record the 1893 seum, in collaboration with the Nederlan- Ermakov created a series of cityscapes flood of Tbilisi. He recorded the inaugu- ds Fotomuseum in Rotterdam, began a featuring the Nariqala Fortress built fifteen ration of the Red Cross Hospital, named major conservation project for the photo centuries earlier, and which throughout after Grand Duke Mikhail Romanov and collections of the Georgian National Mu- history had served as a bastion in the de- later known as the “Mikhailov Hospital”, seum, supported by the European Foun- fence of the city. The sulphur baths of old which still exists. On 20 April 1913, al- dation Horizon in Naarden. Digitalization, Tbilisi held a special attraction for all visi- most all active photographers in Tbilisi restoration and conservation were car- tors to the city and played an important and Kutaisi gathered to depict the Fes- ried out, and as a result a modern photo role in its history. The Tbilisi Baths were the tival of White Chamomile, when money archive emerged, created in accordance subject of many writers – their masseurs was collected to help people suffering with international standards. The project occupied a special place in the photogra- from tuberculosis. lasted ten years and was finalized in 2010, phic series as well. At different times Ale- Another remarkable series of pictures thus injecting new life into the National xander Griboedov, Alexander Pushkin and is distinguished by its size and rarity, and Museum’s photo collections. This has Alexandre Dumas were duly impressed depicts the construction of the Georgian rendered Ermakov’s collection accessi- by the oriental massage. Ermakov’s photo Military Highway, that passed through ble to specialists and interested persons, series devoted to bath-masseurs and the vast mountain panoramas all the way and has supported the training and de- sulphur baths occupy an important place from Tbilisi to its final point over the velopment of a new generation of mu- in his work. Caucasus Mountains. The series includes seum professionals who now work in the Ermakov’s studio production reflected all the important historical and natural Museum’s Photo Collection Department. his talents in another genre – his por- landmarks such as the Svetitskhoveli Ca- To conclude this substantial restoration traits were composed with great care thedral and the River Kura, and is a pic- project, on June 14th, 2014 an exhibition and precision. He used chiaroscuro and torial record of the entire process of the entitled: “Ermakov Photostudio – Photo- soft contours, and paid great attention railway’s construction up to the arrival of grapher, Collector and Entrepreneur” will to lighting. In his workshop he conduc- the first passenger train on 10 October, be inaugurated at the Nederlands Foto- ted experiments in photographic tech- 1872. museum in Rotterdam.

70 GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM 71 The Dmanisi Paleoanthropology Field School is a four Field School in Dmanisi week program offered annually by the Georgian Natio- nal Museum, University of Zurich and the Dmanisi Field The Dmanisi Paleoanthropology Field School Network. The Field School 2014 will run from mid-July through mid-August and offer an opportunity to acquire practical archaeological skills, in combination with theore- tical knowledge. The Field School is open to young scien- tists, as well as archaeology and anthropology students and interested persons internationally. The school is held at the Dmanisi Paleolithic site (village of Patara Dmanisi, 80 km from Tbilisi, Dmanisi Region, East Georgia) and participants will stay either in the camp or a village near the archaeological site. Dmanisi is one of the most important archaeological sites in the world, where well-preserved fossil hominins (see http://archaeology.about.com/od/hterms/g/hominin. htm) were discovered, as well as a rich assemblage of lithic artifacts and faunal remains. Discoveries in Dmanisi changed the understanding of major events in human evolution, such as the time of dispersal out of Africa, which has now been shifted back by one million years. It has also launched the debates on intra-population variation in fossil hominids, revealing that it does not exceed the variation observed in modern humans.

Dmanisi field school program • The first three weeks is a combination of theoretical course and practical training. The theoretical course features lectures in archaeology, geology, anthropology, paleontolo- gy and taphonomy (the study of the processes such as burial, decay, and preservation that affect animal and plant remains as they become fossilized); the practical training involves instruction in archaeological techniques and excavation. By the end of the third week students will choose a topic for a potential research project focusing on Dmanisi. Students will work with each other and the Field School faculty to finalize their proposals during the final week at the site. • Sundays are free and participants will have an opportuni- ty to take part in excursions to other historical and prehisto- ric sites of interest in the Dmanisi region. The last Sunday of the field school is the day of departure.

For more information visit: museum.ge and dmanisi.ge 74 Dmanisi Discoveries on the cover of Science

Publication > Natia Khuluzauri

Complete Skull from Dma- dividual, which allowed the scientists to nisi, Georgia, and the Evo- conduct comprehensive research. "A lutionary Biology of Early The research on which the magazine ar- Homo" was the title of an article publi- ticle was based had continued for years, shed in Science magazine on 18 Octo- conducted in collaboration with foreign ber 2013, drawing the attention of the colleagues. The Georgian scientists, David world's scientific community and the Lordkipanidze, Abesalom Vekua and Ann press. The article was about the disco- Margvelashvili, worked with representati- very of the fifth cranium from Dmanisi, ves of the world's various leading research found in 2005 in an archaeological layer institutions such as G. Philip Rightmire (Har- dating back 1.8 million years. The lower vard University), Christoph P. E. Zolikofer and Universe, Human Being, Brain jaw discovered in 2000 belongs to the Marcia S. Ponce de León (University of Zu- same individual. This sample is the only rich) and Yoel Rak (Tel Aviv University), who Events > Natia Khuluzauri perfectly preserved skull of an adult in- co-authored the article.

t is 20 November 2013, almost 7 The Georgian National Museum's of the brain and in the number of its o'clock. Friends of the Museum, General Director, Professor Lordkipa- folds and that a modern human's brain I businessmen, politicians and stu- nidze, makes opening remarks then is approximately 2.5 times larger than dents gather in the Auditorium and soon appears before the public in a di- that of human ancestors discovered the public areas of the Georgian Na- fferent role – that of scientist. Gia Dvali so far. Then Zaza Kokaia further deve- Nature magazine tional Museum... The staff settles final had already explained the theory of lops the topic of the brain and tells us technical details: it’s the first attempt the origins of the universe, the "music" about the incredible "autonomy" re- Publishing an article in Science is a to air an event live from the Museum that – apparently – can be heard to this presented by the brain. He explains in great honor for any scholar, and being Auditorium to the public area of day – explosions that set in motion the detail what makes us human, and what on its cover is a special recognition. the S. Janashia Museum of Georgia. creation of the universe through sound conditions our skill called "thinking". Proving this point further was the res- Everything is ready and three Geor- vibrations. He talked about black ho- Several myths are debunked, for exam- ponse to the publication in another gian scientists – Gia Dvali, David Lor- les, energy exchange and tests con- ple that brain cells do not regenerate. exceptionally important scientific jour- dkipanidze and Zaza Kokaia – are get- ducted by scientists today. And when It turns out that they do, in fact it even nal, Nature, as well as in The New York ting ready to meet their audience. we reach the topic of humans we learn turns out that forgetting is a process as Times, The Guardian, National Geogra- "Universe, Human Being, Brain" is the that we consist of particles of stars natural as remembering! We learn that phic, Figaro and other top news publi- title of the lecture to be delivered by that once existed. Professor Lordkipa- today it is possible to extract stem cells cations of the world. This was the third the Georgian scholars. The goal is to tell nidze takes Gia Dvali's place, and he from an already developed cell and extensive article published by Science about fundamental discoveries made in begins to talk about human evolution, turn them into the most complicated on Dmanisi's extraordinary discoveries. recent years in cosmology, paleoanthro- the path that our ancestors took from cells – neurons – in our brain. The paleoanthropological find in Dma- pology and neuroscience. The audience hominin to homo sapiens and the pla- The lecture continues for about two nisi was assigned a third place in the will hear about the most recent findings ce that Dmanisi's ancient inhabitants hours, followed by an animated discus- world's top 10 archaeological discove- related to the origins of the universe, hu- occupy in the history of human evolu- sion. The scientists return to the public ries of 2000. man evolution and development of the tion. We feel that discoveries made in area to allow the audience gathered Comments by renowned scientists brain, told by the scientists whose resear- Dmanisi have altered the global evolu- there to ask their questions too. Time were published in the same issue of ch is directly linked to those discoveries. tion map. Science magazine published spins away, the way it does when one Science, including those by American They will find out how modern science an article about the latest discoveries is watching a good show or reading a scholar Tim White, who said: "This is a manages the process of learning about of Dmanisi yet again, and we learn that good book. The audience is reluctant special burial site which will remain in the universe, the descent of man and the the main factor conducive to human to leave – the evening is a great suc- the spotlight of scientists' attention for a essence of being human. evolution was an increase in the size cess. long time".

GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM 75 76

World Environment Day National Geographic at the Georgian National Museum Events > Ana Verulashvili in Georgia he Georgian National Museum and National Geographic Ge- fe and nature, taken by the world’s top photographers from the orgia presented a series of events dedicated to World Envi- National Geographic. Mr. Levan Butkhuzi, Editor-in-Chief of Na- Events > Natia Khuluzauri Tronment Day on May 5, 2014 at the Simon Janashia Museum tional Geographic Georgia, said, “National Geographic could not of Georgia. Youth made up the majority of attendees, and were in- ignore this important day! We have a strategic partnership with n 22 September 2012, in the courtyard of the Geor- now provide National Geographic with more opportunities to vited to participate in educational programs and public lectures – a the Georgian National Museum, which includes an educational gian National Museum, the Silk Road Group and the learn and publish materials on this region. master class took place in the courtyard of the museum. center. This has permitted us to organize this exhibition.” Mr. O new editorial team for National Geographic Georgia According to the new Editor of the Georgian edition, Levan The Minister of Environmental Protection and Natural Resour- Butkhuzi and Mr. Gia Todua, member of the Georgian National hosted a reception to mark the "childhood dream" of many Ge- Butkhuzi, the magazine will play an important role in the edu- ces of Georgia, Ms. Khatuna Gogaladze, and the General Director Museum Educational Center, offered lectures on environmental orgians. The Georgian public and media were greeted by the cation of the Georgian public about their own country. The ma- of the Georgian National Museum, Prof. David Lordkipanidze, protection. General Director of the Georgian National Museum, David Lor- terials are thoroughly analyzed and factual, yet their presenta- officially opened the day with addresses dedicated to World En- Visitors could see exhibits from the Natural History Collections dkipanidze and his guests, Executive Vice President of the Na- tion is clear, attractive and accessible both to the public and vironment Day. Minister Gogaladze said, “The Georgian National displaying unique flora and fauna of the Caucasus region collec- tional Geographic Society of the United States, Terrence B. Ada- professionals. Butkhuzi pointed out that collaboration with the Museum and National Geographic Magazine have organized a ted since 1852 by leading scientists and explorers. mson, and National Geographic photographer, Mark Thiessen. Georgian National Museum and its General Director have been very interesting exhibition, and I see many young people invol- The crowning moment of the day was the master class that The occasion also marked the opening of a photo exhibition subjects of National Geographic Georgia's work on several oc- ved in the activities. I strongly support these type of events and took place in the courtyard of the Museum under the gui- by the American explorer, George Kennan, who traveled and casions, given the importance of projects implemented by the would like to emphasize that the main aim for such programs is dance of Dr. Nicholas Toth, Professor from the University of documented Georgian sites in the late 19th century. A 55-page Museum. When creating the Georgian edition, Butkhuzi said, to help our young generations grasp the meaning of environ- Indiana and co-founder of the Stone Age Institute. He and ar- account of this trip was published in the October 1913 issue of the editorial team had the Museum's unyielding support. “So mental protection – about biodiversity, poaching, and other is- chaeologists from the Georgian National Museum, David Jva- National Geographic US. where else – if not at the Museum, where National Geographic sues. We want them to know the risks to our environment, and nia and Giorgi Bidzinashvili, explained the evolution of Stone The representative of National Geographic USA, Terrence has been so welcome, would we hold this presentation!" how they can protect it.” Professor Lordkipanidze emphasized the Age tools, and showed techniques and how they had been Adamson, said that Georgia, with its history and remarkable The Silk Road Group and the Chairman of its Board of Directors, need for youth to be pro-active: “We have the possibility to pass created. archaeological discoveries, its diverse natural environment and Giorgi Ramishvili, are the initiators and sponsors of National Ge- along the knowledge and understanding of our environment, This celebration of World Environment Day at the Georgian Na- its unique people, has long been part of National Geographic's ographic in Georgia. Ramishvili said that his and his team's wish and I am sure many of our guests here today will now want to tional Museum was a successful initiative that linked knowledge life. He said the magazine has published articles on this country is to offer Georgians high-quality, publically accessible scientific become active defenders of nature!” of our origins with urgent modern risks to the natural environ- for more than a century, and George Kennan’s work exempli- literature. Today, National Geographic is published in 40 langua- In the public area of the S. Janashia Museum of Georgia, a pho- ment. This permitted visitors to understand the need to respect fies this interest. According to him, the Georgian edition would ges in over 100 countries including Georgia. to exhibition offered images from fascinating moments of wildli- and conserve biodiversity and the natural world.

GEORGIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM 77 78

The Georgian Missions to Kuwait

Archaeology > Natia Likokeli On December 24th, 2010, the Secretary-General of the Kuwaiti National Council for Culture, Arts & Letters Mr. Bader Al-Rifai and the General Director of the Georgian National Museum, Professor David Lordkipandize signed an Agreement of Mutual Cooperation. Through this agreement the Georgian National Museum will conduct archaeological excavations for two months annually on the Failaka Island near Kuwait.

n 2011, the first archaeological of other sites to be excavated during In the spring of 2013 the Georgian group worked on the site from future missions. mission continued excavations on visit the exhibition IMarch 7th until the end of April. The main aim of the 2012 mission Kuwait’s Failaka Island, where Early Thirteen Georgian scholars and stu- was to carry out scientific research Iron Age hearths and a settlement from "Georgian Archaeology from 8th millennium B.C. till 4th century A.D." dents took part in the excavations, on unearthed constructions and to the Middle Ages were unearthed. and during the excavations Early continue excavations. Architectural A new Agreement was signed the Bronze Age tombs were unearthed construction, glass and ceramic frag- same year between the Kuwaiti Natio- for the first time at Failaka. These ments and other objects unearthed nal Council of Culture Arts and Letters, were barrows and stone boxes (the on the island were studied. Most were and the Georgian National Museum. remains of which are dated to the dated to the Early and Middle Bronze This Agreement would permit Geor- end of the 3rd and beginning of the Ages. At the same time the team in- gian architects to carry out an architec- 2nd millennia BC). The Georgian mis- vestigated the surrounding territory tural survey and prepare the technical sion also carried out a survey of the and carried out partial conservation description of sites at Sheikh Khazaal area and established the existence of several buildings. during following years.

Georgian National Museum / S. Janashia Museum of Georgia Rustaveli ave. 3, Tbilisi 0105, georgia