The Terracotta Army, a remarkable funerary art collection, was created to accompany Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China, in his afterlife.
This vast assembly of life-sized terracotta figures, including infantrymen, horsemen, archers, chariots, and even non-military figures like artists and civil servants, was discovered in 1974 near Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, by local farmers.
The army is part of a larger necropolis that spans 98 square kilometers, designed to mirror the imperial palace and city of Xianyang .
The Terracotta Army consists of approximately 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots with 520 horses, and 150 cavalry horses.
These figures are meticulously crafted, with each soldier having unique facial features, reflecting the high level of artistry involved. Originally painted in bright colors, the statues were hand-shaped, engraved, and fired by an estimated 700,000 artisans before being buried in 210-209 BCE .
This archaeological marvel is housed in a museum built on the site of its discovery, where visitors can view the army in situ.
The museum includes a large hangar over Pit No. 1, the largest of the four pits, which contains nearly 6,000 statues arranged in 11 corridors . The Terracotta Army is not only a testament to the military might of the Qin Dynasty but also to the emperor's quest for immortality. It reflects the sophisticated military organization of the time and provides insight into the cultural and artistic achievements of ancient China. The site was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, highlighting its global cultural significance seen in Beaux Arts
© www.vwart.com