The Terracotta Army is one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. This vast collection of life-size terracotta sculptures was created to serve as the after-life army for Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China, who ruled from 221 to 210 BC. Here are detailed insights into this incredible relic:
Discovery and Location
The Terracotta Army was discovered in 1974 by local farmers in Lintong District, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, when they were digging a well. The site is part of the larger Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor, which spans an area of approximately 56.25 square kilometers.
Construction and Purpose
- Purpose: The army was designed to protect the emperor in his afterlife, reflecting his desire for military power to continue beyond death.
- Construction: The figures were made by hand, with each soldier having distinct facial features, hairstyles, armor, and even expressions, indicating a level of individualization. It is estimated that over 700,000 laborers worked on the project.
- Materials: The figures are primarily made from terracotta (fired clay), with some wooden parts for chariots and armaments made from bronze.
- Number: There are approximately 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots with 520 horses, and 150 cavalry horses, along with other non-military figures like officials, acrobats, and musicians.
Archaeological Findings
- Pits: The main pits are known as Pit 1, Pit 2, Pit 3, and Pit 4. Pit 1, the largest, contains the main army, while Pit 2 holds cavalry and infantry units, and Pit 3 is believed to be the headquarters.
- Excavation: Excavation is ongoing, with only a small percentage of the site fully explored due to the risk of damage to the artifacts upon exposure to air.
Artistic and Technological Significance
The Terracotta Army showcases:
- High levels of artistry in sculpture and portraiture.
- Advanced pottery techniques for the time, including the use of molds for mass production but with individualized features.
- The figures' bodies were assembled from different parts, allowing for greater efficiency in production.
Current Status and Tourism
The Terracotta Army is now a major tourist attraction and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site is protected and preserved by the Chinese government, with efforts to prevent degradation and to study the artifacts further. Visitors can walk through the museum where the pits are covered by large structures to protect them from the elements.
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