Why is the Terracotta Army so Significant?
The Terracotta Army is one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The army of terracotta warriors and horses was buried with Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China, in 210–209 BCE. The purpose of the army was to protect the emperor in his afterlife.
What is Terracotta?
Terracotta is a type of ceramic clay that is commonly used to create sculptures, pottery, and architectural elements. Its superior durability, vibrant colours, and easy-to-mould nature make it a popular choice for sculptors and architects. However, the main reason for the popularity of terracotta is the fact that it is a form of clay that is easily found on most continents. In most cases, this clay is also rich in iron. When baked at high temperatures, this iron-rich clay oxidizes, giving the terracotta its characteristic reddish-brown colour.
Why is the Terracotta Army so important?
The Terracotta Army is a vast 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.
There are many reasons why the Terracotta Army is considered to be so important.
A Glimpse into Ancient China
Firstly, the Terracotta Army is a remarkable example of ancient Chinese artistry and craftsmanship. The figures are incredibly lifelike and detailed, and they provide a valuable insight into the military practices, weaponry, and cultural beliefs of the Qin dynasty. The sheer scale of the project is also impressive, with an estimated 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots with 520 horses, and 150 cavalry horses having been buried in the three pits.
Advanced Construction Techniques
The figures of the Terracotta Army were created using a complex process that involved creating a mold, firing the clay, and then painting and detailing the figures. The fact that the ancient Chinese were able to create such lifelike and detailed figures on such a large scale is a testament to their skill and ingenuity.
Historically Significant
In addition to its artistic and archaeological significance, the Terracotta Army is also important for what it tells us about the history of China. The Qin dynasty was a period of great political and social upheaval, and the Terracotta Army is a powerful symbol of the power and ambition of Qin Shi Huang.
The army was lost for centuries until it was rediscovered by farmers in 1974. The discovery of the Terracotta Army was a major archaeological event and it has since become one of the most popular tourist destinations in China. It continues to be an important source of information for archaeologists and historians who are studying ancient China.
Terracotta Army FAQs
Q: How many terracotta warriors are there?
A: There are estimated to be over 8,000 terracotta warriors, along with 130 chariots with 520 horses, and 150 cavalry horses.
Q: How tall are the tallest terracotta warriors?
A: The tallest figures in the army are the generals, some of which are over 6 feet tall.
Q: Why was the Terracotta Army buried?
A: The Terracotta Army was buried with Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China, to protect him in the afterlife.