The Terracotta Army is a collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China. It is a form of funerary art buried with the emperor in 210–209 BCE with the purpose of protecting the emperor in his afterlife. The figures, dating from approximately the late third century BCE, were discovered in 1974 by local farmers in Lintong District, Xi’an, Shaanxi province, China. The figures vary in height according to their roles, with the tallest being the generals. The figures include warriors, chariots and horses. Current estimates are that in the three pits containing the Terracotta Army there were over 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots with 520 horses and 150 cavalry horses, the majority of which are still buried in the pits.
History of the Terracotta Army
The Terracotta Army was constructed to accompany the tomb of the first Emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang. It was discovered in 1974 by a group of farmers who were digging a well near the city of Xi’an in the Shaanxi Province. Since then, archaeologists have uncovered three large pits containing thousands of terracotta figures, along with weapons, chariots, and horses. The pits are thought to have been built around 210 BCE, shortly before the death of the Emperor.
Architecture of the Terracotta Army
The figures of the Terracotta Army are life-sized and vary in height according to their roles, with the tallest being the generals. The figures include warriors, chariots, and horses. The figures are thought to have been created using molds, and then individually painted.
Weapons
The figures of the Terracotta Army are equipped with weapons, including crossbows, swords, spears, and daggers. The weapons were made of bronze, and many were found to be still sharp after 2,000 years.
Chariots and Horses
The pits of the Terracotta Army also contain chariots and horses. The chariots are thought to have been based on real chariots used in the Qin dynasty, and are made of wood and bronze. The horses are made of terracotta, and are also thought to be based on real horses used in the Qin dynasty.
Significance of the Terracotta Army
The Terracotta Army is one of the most significant archaeological finds of the 20th century. It provides valuable insight into the practices and beliefs of the Qin dynasty, and the life of its first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. The figures are a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the artisans of the time, and are a reminder of the power and grandeur of the Qin dynasty.
Legacy of the Terracotta Army
The discovery of the Terracotta Army has become an iconic symbol of Chinese culture and history. It has been the subject of numerous films, books, and artworks. It is also a popular tourist attraction, drawing thousands of visitors each year.
Conclusion
The Terracotta Army is a remarkable archaeological find that provides valuable insight into the life and culture of the Qin dynasty. It is a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the artisans of the time, and is a reminder of the power and grandeur of the Qin dynasty. The Terracotta Army has become an iconic symbol of Chinese culture and history, and is a popular tourist attraction.
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