Terracotta Army Sculpture is a type of large-scale sculpture that originated in China in the third century BCE. The terracotta sculptures, which depict life-size figures of soldiers, chariots, and horses, were discovered in 1974 in the ancient city of Xi’an, in the Shaanxi Province of China. The sculptures are part of a vast underground complex of more than 8,000 figures, which were built to guard the tomb of the first emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang. The terracotta army has become one of the most iconic archaeological finds in the world.
History of the Terracotta Army
The terracotta army was discovered in 1974 by a group of farmers who were digging a well near the ancient city of Xi’an. The farmers stumbled upon a large number of terracotta sculptures, which were buried in the ground. Upon further investigation, it was discovered that the sculptures were part of a vast underground complex, which was built to guard the tomb of the first emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang. The terracotta army is estimated to have been constructed around 210 BCE and is believed to have taken over 700,000 workers to construct.
Construction of the Terracotta Army
The terracotta army was constructed using a variety of techniques. The figures were first sculpted out of clay and then fired in a kiln to make them hard and durable. After firing, the figures were then painted with a variety of colors to give them a lifelike appearance. The figures were then placed in the underground complex, which was divided into three main pits. Each pit contained a different type of figure, with the first pit containing chariots and cavalry, the second pit containing infantry, and the third pit containing archers.
Significance of the Terracotta Army
The terracotta army is one of the most significant archaeological finds in the world. It is a testament to the advanced level of artistry and craftsmanship of the ancient Chinese. The sculptures provide a unique insight into the culture and beliefs of the Qin dynasty, as well as an invaluable source of information about the development of Chinese art and sculpture. The terracotta army has become an international symbol of China and its history, and is now a popular tourist attraction.
Preservation of the Terracotta Army
The terracotta army is a fragile and delicate structure, and is vulnerable to the elements. To protect the sculptures from the elements, the Chinese government has constructed a large museum over the site. The museum is climate-controlled and is designed to protect the sculptures from moisture, dust, and other environmental factors. In addition, the museum also contains a research center, which is dedicated to the study and preservation of the terracotta army.
Conclusion
The terracotta army is a remarkable archaeological find and a unique insight into the culture and beliefs of the Qin dynasty. The sculptures are a testament to the advanced level of artistry and craftsmanship of the ancient Chinese, and are now a popular tourist attraction. To ensure the preservation of the terracotta army, the Chinese government has constructed a large museum over the site, which is climate-controlled and designed to protect the sculptures from moisture, dust, and other environmental factors.
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