The Terracotta Army: An Army for the Afterlife
A Wonder of the Ancient World
Referred to as the eighth Wonder of the World, the original Terracotta Warriors date back to 209 B.C. and were found in 1974 by a worker digging a well. It was a discovery that would change history and capture the imaginations of people around the world. Located near Xi'an, China, the Terracotta Army is a vast collection of life-sized terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China.
The Purpose of the Terracotta Army
The army was buried with the emperor in 210–209 BCE, with the purpose of protecting him in his afterlife. It is a testament to the power and ambition of Qin Shi Huang, who unified China and ruled with an iron fist. The sheer scale of the project is staggering.
The Number of Warriors
It is believed as many as 8,000 warriors exist, nestled in the grave among chariots, animals, entertainers, and other clay representations of afterlife needs. These figures are not identical. They vary in height according to their roles, with the tallest figures being the generals. The figures also feature a wide range of facial features, expressions, clothing, hairstyles, and armor, indicating that great care was taken to create a realistic and diverse army.
The Construction and Design of the Army
The Terracotta Army is divided into three main pits.
- Pit 1, the largest, contains the main force of infantry and chariots, arranged in battle formation.
- Pit 2 houses cavalry and infantry units, along with chariots and archers.
- Pit 3, the smallest, is thought to represent a command post, with high-ranking officers and a chariot.
The figures were created using an assembly-line production method, with different parts of the body molded separately and then assembled. After firing in a kiln, the figures were painted in bright colors, though much of the paint has faded over the centuries.
The Significance of the Terracotta Army
The Terracotta Army is an invaluable archaeological treasure and provides us with an unparalleled glimpse into the military practices, artistry, and beliefs of ancient China. It is a reminder of the power of human ingenuity and the enduring fascination with the afterlife.
Q&A
Q: Where is the Terracotta Army located? A: The Terracotta Army is located near Xi'an, in Shaanxi province, China.
Q: When was the Terracotta Army discovered? A: The Terracotta Army was discovered in 1974 by farmers digging a well.
Q: Why was the Terracotta Army built? A: The Terracotta Army was built to protect the first emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang, in the afterlife.
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