Little Boy Accidentally Breaks 3,500-Year-Old Bronze Age Jar at Israeli Museum

A 4-year-old boy accidentally shattered a 3,500-year-old Bronze Age jar at the Hecht Museum in Haifa, Israel, during a visit on Friday, CNN reports.

The ancient artifact, believed to be between 2200 BC and 1500 BC, was on display without protective glass near the entrance of the museum when the incident occurred.

The Hecht Museum defended its choice to display certain items without glass cases, noting that its founder, Reuben Hecht, emphasized the importance of making artifacts accessible to the public.

“The museum believes there is a special charm in experiencing an archaeological find without any obstructions,” the museum said in a s statement, adding that the institution would “continue this tradition” despite the recent mishap.

According to the child’s father, his son was curious about the contents of the jar and had “pulled it slightly” when it fell. The father expressed his shock upon discovering his son beside the broken artifact, initially doubting that his child was responsible for the damage.

The museum said that the jar was historically significant, having been used for storing and transporting liquids like wine or olive oil, predating the reigns of King David and King Solomon in the 10th century BC. While archaeologists have found similar vessels in the past, many were either broken or incomplete, making this intact jar an “impressive find,” according to the museum.

In response to the incident, Inbal Rivlin, the museum’s head, invited the boy and his mother back for a private tour.

“The museum is not a mausoleum but a living place, open to families and accessible,” Rivlin stated. She appealed to parents, saying, “Don’t be afraid. Things like this happen. We will fix the jar and put it back.”

The museum has since implemented new signage to indicate which items can or cannot be touched.

The Hecht Museum, located on the grounds of the University of Haifa and opened in 1984, features archaeological discoveries dating back to the Chalcolithic period (around 4500 BC to 3500 BC). A restoration expert has been contacted to repair the broken jar using photographs, and the museum has assured the public that it will return the artifact to its display shortly.

The child’s father expressed regret, stating he was sorry that the jar “will no longer be the same item” after its restoration.