Terracotta Army

These warriors have been protecting the emperor's grave for 2000 years

The Terracotta Army in Xi’an in China exists of 8,000 clay soldiers in rows. Each of these sculptures is unique, and it is believed they were all modelled after real people.

After the first emperor of China died, this army was hidden under the soil for about 200 years, and discovered by coincidence by farmers. The quality and variety of the sculptures makes this one of the most important archaeological finds od the 20th century.

How old is the Terracotta Army?

Soldaten van het Terracottaleger in China.

 It looks like a lifelike diorama of an army from 150 BC, ready for battle. Research has uncovered that the sculptures were painted in bright colours at the time, but most of the colours have faded, or disappeared entirely. Time, and the soil they were covered by, have taken their toll on them.

What does the Terracotta Army look like?

Foot soldiers, archers and horsemen are all ready for attack, some even with bows at the ready, facing east. Each figure is different and detailed, possibly to represent actual warriors at the time. The museum shows how they found the remains of the Terracotta Army.

A close up of the Terracotta Army in China. ©Corno van den Berg

Museum of Qin Shi Huang Terracotta Warriors and Horses

In Xi'an ou can visit the Museum of Qin Shi Huang Terracotta Warriors and Horses. It offers possibly one of the most beautiful finds of the Terracotta Army. It houses, amongst other things, the world-famous horse chariots, which have been restored as much as possible.

One of the famous horse chariots that were found as part of the Terracotta Army. ©Corno van den Berg

These are the only parts of the army not made entirely out of clay, but out of bronze, and included elaborate ornaments. The museum is located next to the halls with the Terracotta Army and is a big attraction.

The terracotta solders stand side by side in rows. ©Corno van den Berg

The Conservation Halls

During my tour of China I was not sure what to expect. When I went to the Terracotta Army, to be honest I was amazed. Also disappointed with the immense halls placed above the statues. Which are actually very ugly.

Taking photos was difficult because you have little freedom of movement. I didn't really feel like I could really experience the famous army.

You can also see lots of destroyed warriors. ©Corno van den Berg

After the clear explanation of the guide in the museum, I understood why the statues must be protected from erosion from wind and weather. As well as smog and human breath.

Now that the statues are no longer in the sand, they are susceptible to just about anything. And if we want future generations to also be able to enjoy this army, then it is unfortunately necessary.

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