How Many Horses Are Buried With the Terracotta Army?
The Discovery of Terracotta Horses
The Terracotta Army, a vast collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China, is one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. Excavations at the site, located near Xi'an, China, have unearthed thousands of life-sized terracotta figures, including warriors, chariots, and horses, since its discovery in 1974.
The Number of Horses Found
It is estimated that more than 600 terracotta horses are buried in the three pits of the Terracotta Army. Of these, 516 are harnessed horses intended to pull chariots, while the remaining 116 are saddle horses belonging to cavalrymen.
Types of Terracotta Horses
The terracotta horses found in the pits can be categorized into two main types: chariot horses and cavalry horses.
Chariot Horses
The majority of the horses found are chariot horses. These horses are typically depicted in teams of four, pulling bronze chariots. The chariot horses are meticulously crafted, with detailed musculature, harnesses, and bridles. They are shown in various poses, some standing at attention and others straining forward as if pulling a heavy load.
Cavalry Horses
In addition to the chariot horses, a smaller number of cavalry horses have been discovered. These horses are depicted as being ridden by terracotta cavalrymen. They are generally slightly smaller than the chariot horses and are depicted with different tack and equipment. Some of these horses are shown with saddles and stirrups, which were relatively new inventions in China at the time.
Significance of the Horses
The presence of so many horses in the Terracotta Army highlights the importance of these animals in ancient Chinese warfare. Horses were essential for transportation, communication, and cavalry charges. The Qin army's reliance on horses contributed significantly to their military success and the unification of China.
The First Excavation of the Terracotta Chariot Horses
The terracotta chariot horses were first excavated in Pit 1 in 1976. This pit is the largest of the three pits and contains the main force of the Terracotta Army. The discovery of the horses in this pit was a major event, as it provided further evidence of the scale and magnificence of Qin Shi Huang's tomb complex.
FAQ
Q1: Are all the horses identical?
A1: No, while the horses share a similar style and are crafted with remarkable realism, there are subtle variations in their poses, expressions, and even the details of their harnesses, suggesting individual craftsmanship.
Q2: Were the horses originally painted?
A2: Yes, like the terracotta warriors, the horses were originally painted in vibrant colors. However, exposure to air and moisture over centuries caused the paint to flake off soon after excavation. Traces of pigment suggest the horses were once adorned with a variety of colors, including red, brown, black, and white.
Q3: Why did Qin Shi Huang want an army of terracotta warriors and horses?
A3: It's believed that the Terracotta Army was created to protect Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife. The emperor was obsessed with immortality and believed that he could continue to rule his empire even after death. The terracotta army, along with the vast tomb complex, was intended to serve him in the next world.