Terracotta soldiers dynasty is one of the most remarkable archaeological finds in China. It is an army of terracotta figures that were buried with the first emperor of the Qin dynasty in 210–209 BCE. 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. The terracotta figures were discovered in 1974 by local farmers in Lintong District, Xi’an, Shaanxi province. The terracotta figures were placed in the pits in precise military formation according to rank and duty.
History of the Terracotta Army
The terracotta army was created by the first emperor of the Qin dynasty, Qin Shi Huang. He was the first emperor to unify China and build the Great Wall of China. He wanted to be buried with an army of terracotta warriors to protect him in the afterlife. It is believed that the army was created over a period of 38 years by 700,000 workers.
The Figures
The terracotta figures vary in height according to their roles, with the tallest being the generals. They are life-size and vary in facial features, hair styles, clothing, and weaponry. The figures were originally painted with bright colors, but the paint has faded over time. The figures include warriors, chariots, horses, officials, acrobats, strongmen, and musicians.
The Pits
The terracotta figures were discovered in 1974 by local farmers in Lintong District, Xi’an, Shaanxi province. The figures were found in three pits that were located near the emperor’s mausoleum. The first pit is the largest and contains the majority of the figures. The second pit contains chariots and horses. The third pit contains 68 figures, including officials, strongmen, and acrobats.
The Formation
The terracotta figures were placed in the pits in precise military formation according to rank and duty. The figures were arranged in a rectangular formation with the generals in the front and the warriors in the back. The chariots and horses were placed in the center of the formation. The officials, acrobats, strongmen, and musicians were placed in the back of the formation.
Preservation and Restoration
The terracotta figures have been preserved and restored over the years. They are now housed in the Qin Shi Huang Mausoleum Site Museum in Xi’an. The museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in China. Visitors can walk through the pits and see the figures up close.
Significance
The terracotta army is one of the most significant archaeological finds in China. It is a testament to the power and wealth of the first emperor of the Qin dynasty. The figures provide insight into the daily life of the Qin dynasty and the technology of the time. The terracotta figures are a testament to the skill and artistry of the Chinese artisans of the time.
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