The Terracotta Warriors are a collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China. The figures, dating from 210–209 BCE, were discovered in 1974 by local farmers in Lintong District, Xi’an, Shaanxi province. The figures vary in height according to their roles, with the tallest being the generals. The figures include warriors, chariots, horses, officials, acrobats, strongmen, and musicians.
History
The Terracotta Army was discovered in 1974 by a group of farmers near the city of Xi’an in Shaanxi Province. They were digging a well when they stumbled upon some pottery fragments. Upon further investigation, they discovered a vast underground tomb complex filled with terracotta sculptures. The tomb is believed to have been built to protect the spirit of the first Emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang, in the afterlife.
The figures were made in sections and assembled in the tomb, and are estimated to have taken 700,000 workers over 38 years to complete. The figures are all unique and show the faces, hairstyles and clothing of the people of the time. They also show facial expressions, and are believed to have been painted with bright colors. The figures were also armed with real weapons of the period, such as swords, spears and crossbows.
Significance
The Terracotta Army is one of the most significant archaeological finds in history. It is a testament to the power and wealth of the Qin Dynasty, and is a valuable source of information about the military, political and religious beliefs of the time. The figures have become an important symbol of Chinese culture, and are a popular tourist attraction.
Conservation
The Terracotta Army is a fragile and irreplaceable piece of history, and so it is important that it is preserved and protected. The site has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the figures are kept in a climate-controlled environment to protect them from damage. Conservation efforts are ongoing, and the figures are regularly examined and restored.
Discoveries
The Terracotta Army continues to reveal its secrets. In recent years, archaeologists have uncovered new figures, as well as chariots and horses. In 2018, the tomb of Qin Shi Huang’s general, Li Cang, was discovered. It contained a life-size terracotta figure of the general, as well as a chariot and four horses.
Conclusion
The Terracotta Army is a remarkable archaeological discovery that continues to fascinate and amaze. It is a powerful symbol of the power and wealth of the Qin Dynasty, and a valuable source of information about the people of the time. It is also an important part of Chinese culture, and is a popular tourist attraction. Conservation efforts are ongoing, and the site continues to reveal its secrets.
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