The Terracotta Army is a collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of the First Emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang. The figures, dating from 210 BCE, were discovered in 1974 by farmers in Lintong District, Xi’an, Shaanxi province, China. The Terracotta Army is a form of funerary art buried with the emperor in order to protect him in his afterlife, and a representation of the emperor’s army.
The Terracotta Army: A Closer Look
The Terracotta Army is made up of more than 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots with 520 horses, and 150 cavalry horses, the majority of which are still buried in the pits near the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. The figures vary in height, with the tallest being the generals at around 1.8 meters (5 feet 11 inches) and the shortest being the soldiers at around 1.5 meters (4 feet 11 inches).
Each figure is unique, with its own facial features, hairstyles, and clothing. The figures also have different ranks, with the higher-ranking figures being more ornately dressed and groomed. The terracotta figures were created using a combination of mold-making and hand-sculpting techniques.
The Emperor and his Tomb
The Terracotta Army was created for Emperor Qin Shi Huang, who ruled China from 221 to 210 BCE. He is best known for unifying China and building the Great Wall of China. The tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang is located near the terracotta pits and is yet to be excavated. It is believed to be a massive underground palace, with rivers made of mercury, and roofed with constellations of stars.
In addition to the terracotta army, other artifacts and treasures have been found in the tomb, including bronze carriages, weapons, jade objects, and even pearls.
The Excavation and Preservation of the Terracotta Army
The Terracotta Army was discovered in 1974 by farmers digging a well in the Lintong District of Xi’an. The Chinese government immediately took steps to excavate the site and protect the figures. However, the excavation process has been slow and deliberate, as the figures are extremely fragile and easily damaged.
Efforts have also been made to preserve the figures, including controlling the temperature and humidity in the pits, and covering the figures with a special wax coating. Despite these efforts, some of the figures have been damaged, and restoration work is ongoing.
The Impact and Legacy of the Terracotta Army
The discovery of the Terracotta Army had a significant impact on our understanding of ancient Chinese society and the practices of the Chinese emperors. The figures provide a glimpse into the technology, craftsmanship, and cultural beliefs of the time.
The Terracotta Army has also had a significant impact on tourism in China, with the site becoming one of the country’s most popular tourist attractions. Additionally, the Terracotta Army has become a symbol of China and its rich cultural heritage.
The Terracotta Army is a truly remarkable discovery that provides a unique glimpse into ancient Chinese history and culture. The figures, along with the other artifacts and treasures found in the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, offer a wealth of information for researchers and history enthusiasts alike.
Despite the challenges of preservation, the Terracotta Army continues to be a popular tourist destination and a symbol of China’s rich cultural heritage. The ongoing excavation and preservation of the site will hopefully reveal even more about this incredible discovery in the years to come.
For further reading, we recommend visiting the official website of the Terracotta Army Museum in Xi’an, which provides detailed information about the history, excavation, and preservation of the site.
Additionally, there are several books available on the subject, such as “The Terracotta Army: China’s First Emperor and the Birth of a Nation” by John Man and “The Terracotta Warriors: The Secret Codes of the Emperor’s Army” by Maurice Cotterell.
Visiting the Terracotta Army in person is also a must for anyone interested in Chinese history and culture. The museum provides an up-close and personal look at the figures, and the opportunity to learn more about the history and significance of this incredible discovery.
FAQs：
How much is the ticket for the Terra Cotta Warriors
As of 2022, the ticket price for the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum in Xi’an, China, where the Terracotta Army is located, is 120-150 Chinese yuan (CNY) for a standard adult ticket. Please note that the prices may vary depending on the time of the year, and it’s always a good idea to check the official website or with a tour agency to confirm the current prices before visiting. It’s also worth noting that there are discounts available for students and senior citizens, and sometimes for groups.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Terracotta Army is a treasure of world history, it’s a must-see for anyone interested in ancient Chinese culture and history. The figures continue to fascinate and inspire people from all around the world. With ongoing excavation and preservation efforts, we can expect to learn even more about this incredible discovery in the years to come.