A 3,500-year-old jar in the Hecht Museum in Haifa, Israel, was reported was smashed after a four-year-old boy accidentally knocked it over.
The museum, which displays archaeological finds without barriers such as glass cases, had displayed the Bronze Age artifact near its entranceallowing visitors to get close to the piece, BBC News reported.
Dated between 2200 and 1500 BC, the jar – believed to have been used to carry local supplies such as wine and olive oil – was considered a rare find because it remained intact.
The incident occurred when the young visitor was unsupervised and “pulled lightly on the jar” because “he was curious about what was inside,” according to a statement from the boy’s father. He added that he turned around and was “in shock” when he saw the damage.
Boy accidentally breaks 3,500-year-old jar during a museum visit https://t.co/aN6yCDin25
— BBC News (World) (@BBCWorld) August 27, 2024
Lihi Laszlo, a representative from the Hecht Museum, emphasized that the crime was accidental and not an act of intentional harm.
“There are instances where exhibits are intentionally damaged, and such cases are treated with great severity, including by the police,” Laszlo said. “In this case, however, it was not like this. The jar was accidentally damaged by a small child visiting the museum, and the answer will be accordingly.”
In a gesture of understanding, the museum has invited the boy and his family back for an organized tour, highlighting their commitment to education and positive visitor experiences.
A conservation specialist has also been appointed to restore the jar, with hopes that it will soon be on display again.
Despite the accident, the museum said it plans to continue its practice of displaying artifacts without glass barriers, believing it adds a “special charm” to the viewing experience.