Why Was the Terracotta Army Buried in a Tomb?
The Purpose of the Terracotta Army
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 him in his afterlife. The figures vary in height according to their roles, with the tallest being the generals. The figures include warriors, chariots, horses, and other figures, all positioned in battle formations.
The ancient Chinese believed in an afterlife that closely mirrored the earthly realm. Qin Shi Huang, obsessed with maintaining his power and glory even in death, envisioned needing a formidable army to protect him from enemies and maintain order in the afterlife. The Terracotta Army was intended to serve as his eternal guard, ensuring his continued rule and safety beyond the mortal world.
The Discovery of the Terracotta Army
The figures, dating from approximately the late 200s BCE, were discovered in 1974 by local farmers in Lintong County, outside Xi'an, Shaanxi, China. The farmers were digging a well when they stumbled upon fragments of terracotta figures. This accidental discovery led to one of the greatest archaeological finds of the 20th century.
Since their discovery, the Terracotta Army pits have been extensively excavated, revealing thousands of figures. However, a significant number remain buried, and archaeological work continues to uncover more about this ancient wonder. The site is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts millions of visitors annually, captivated by the scale and artistry of this ancient army.
The Significance of the Terracotta Army
The Terracotta Army is significant for a number of reasons.
-
Historical Significance: The Terracotta Army provides invaluable insights into the military practices, weaponry, and social hierarchy of the Qin dynasty. The figures' attire, weapons, and formations offer a glimpse into the military strategies and equipment of ancient China.
-
Artistic Significance: The figures are remarkably lifelike, each with unique facial features, hairstyles, and expressions. The attention to detail in their clothing, armor, and weaponry demonstrates the advanced craftsmanship of the Qin dynasty.
-
Cultural Significance: The Terracotta Army reflects the ancient Chinese beliefs about the afterlife and the importance of honoring the dead, especially the emperor. It stands as a testament to the power and ambition of Qin Shi Huang and the grandeur of the Qin dynasty.
FAQs
Q: Were the Terracotta Warriors modeled after real soldiers?
A: While there's no definitive proof, the individuality of each figure suggests that they may have been inspired by actual soldiers in Qin Shi Huang's army. This theory is further supported by the varying ranks and roles depicted.
Q: How were the Terracotta Warriors made?
A: The figures were created using a complex process involving molds and assembly lines. The body parts were created separately in molds, then assembled and customized with clay details. After firing in kilns, they were meticulously painted, though much of the paint has faded over time.
Q: Are there any plans to excavate all the pits?
A: While the temptation to unearth all the figures is strong, archaeologists are proceeding cautiously. Current conservation techniques are not advanced enough to preserve the figures' delicate pigments upon exposure to air. Therefore, a large portion of the army remains undisturbed, awaiting future advancements in preservation technology.