Terracotta Army

Definition

The Terracotta Army is a collection of thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots buried with China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, around 210-209 BCE. This monumental burial site not only serves as a testament to the military power of the Qin Dynasty but also reflects the intricate artistry and craftsmanship of ancient Chinese artisans, showcasing the importance of art in both funerary practices and imperial representation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Terracotta Army was discovered in 1974 by local farmers digging a well in Shaanxi Province, leading to one of the most significant archaeological finds of the 20th century.
2. Estimates suggest that there are around 8,000 soldiers, 670 horses, and 130 chariots in the Terracotta Army, each uniquely crafted with individual facial features and expressions.
3. The Terracotta Army was built to protect Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife, reflecting the belief in an afterlife and the importance of status and power even after death.
4. The soldiers were originally painted in bright colors, but most of the paint has faded over time due to exposure to air after excavation.
5. This site has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987, highlighting its cultural significance and contribution to understanding ancient Chinese civilization.

Review Questions

• How does the craftsmanship of the Terracotta Army reflect the artistic values and technological advancements of the Qin Dynasty?
  • The craftsmanship of the Terracotta Army showcases advanced techniques in pottery and sculpture that were prevalent during the Qin Dynasty. Each figure was carefully molded and fired at high temperatures to create durable clay soldiers with intricate details. This level of artistry indicates not only the technical skills of ancient artisans but also reflects a societal emphasis on grandeur and imperial representation through art, which was crucial for asserting power and legacy.
• Discuss the significance of the Terracotta Army in understanding Qin Shi Huang's beliefs about life after death and his view on power.
  • The Terracotta Army signifies Qin Shi Huang's deep beliefs about life after death, particularly his desire for protection in the afterlife. The vast array of figures demonstrates his view that even in death, he should maintain his military might and status. This burial practice indicates a society where rulers sought to ensure their legacy through grand projects, believing that their earthly power could extend into eternity through monumental art.
• Evaluate the impact of the discovery of the Terracotta Army on modern perceptions of ancient Chinese civilization and its art.
  • The discovery of the Terracotta Army has profoundly impacted modern perceptions of ancient Chinese civilization by revealing its sophisticated artistic traditions and complex societal structures. It has shifted views from seeing China merely as a historical entity to recognizing it as a civilization with rich cultural heritage and advanced technologies. This monumental find not only enhances appreciation for ancient Chinese art but also contributes to ongoing dialogues about identity, power, and culture in historical contexts, encouraging further research into its influences on contemporary society.

Related terms

Qin Shi Huang:

The first emperor of a unified China, known for his significant contributions to the formation of the Qin Dynasty and the construction of the Great Wall.

Burial Mound: An artificial hill or mound that serves as a burial site for important individuals in ancient cultures, often accompanied by grave goods.

Chinese Sculpture: The art form that involves creating three-dimensional representations of figures or objects, which played a significant role in Chinese cultural heritage.