This photo captures a moment from 1974 when the extensive collection of Terracotta warriors was initially unearthed in Xian, China

[ColonelZ]

This photo captures a moment from 1974 when the extensive collection of Terracotta warriors was initially unearthed in Xian, China. What’s truly fascinating about this image is that it unveils the vibrant colors that were originally painted on these life-sized clay warriors over 2,000 years ago by skilled artisans. Unfortunately, exposure to air and sunlight during excavation caused these colors to rapidly fade away.

These Terracotta warriors were placed to protect the tomb of China’s first emperor, which remains unopened to this day. According to ancient historians, the tomb is believed to house an entire kingdom and palace, featuring ceilings adorned with pearls to mimic the night sky. It’s also rumored to contain rare artifacts and be booby-trapped with crossbows to deter intruders, with the workers being buried alongside the emperor to safeguard its location.

Sima Qian, the Han dynasty historian, noted that inside the tomb, “mercury was used to fashion the hundred rivers, the Yellow river, and the Yangtze river, and the seas in such a way that they flowed.” Modern tests have revealed high mercury levels in the surrounding soil.

Interestingly, historical records suggest that the emperor died from ingesting mercury pills, believed to grant immortality during his era. Explore a close-up of a Terracotta soldier’s unique hairstyle in the second photo.

[ColonelZ]

A fascinating fact about the Terracotta warriors is the presence of real weapons among the thousands of clay soldiers. While many of the weapons held by the Terracotta warriors are replicas made of clay, a significant number of actual bronze weapons were also discovered in the pits.

These real weapons, including swords, spears, and crossbow triggers, were made of high-quality bronze, showcasing the advanced metallurgical skills of ancient China. Some of these weapons were found in excellent condition, while others had deteriorated over time.

The presence of real weapons among the Terracotta warriors adds another layer of historical authenticity to the army, as it highlights the emperor’s desire to have a fully armed and prepared army to accompany him in the afterlife. These bronze weapons not only serve as relics of ancient warfare but also as a testament to the emperor’s obsession with ensuring his protection and power even beyond death.

[ColonelZ]

The Terracotta Warriors depict the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China. It is a form of funerary art. The figures, dating from approximately the late 200s BCE, were discovered in 1974 by local farmers in Lintong County, outside Xi’an, Shaanxi province, China. The figures vary in height according to their rank, the tallest being the generals. The figures include warriors, chariots and horses.

Estimates from 2007 were that the three pits containing the Terracotta Army hold more than 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots with 520 horses, and 150 cavalry horses, the majority of which remain in situ in the pits near Qin Shi Huang’s mausoleum. Other, non-military terracotta figures were found in adjoining pits, including officials, acrobats, strongmen, and musicians.

The Terracotta Army is considered one of the greatest archaeological finds of the 20th century. It is a unique and awe-inspiring sight, and it offers a glimpse into the power and glory of the Qin dynasty. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in China.

[ColonelZ]

The discovery of the army happened through an unusual turn of events.

In March 1974, during a severe drought, two brothers who were tending to their smallholding in the village of Lintong, located a day’s journey east of Xi’an in central China, decided to excavate a new well.

After digging down about a meter, they encountered a solid layer, initially mistaking it for an ancient brick kiln. To their astonishment, fragments of pottery started to surface, followed by the sudden emergence of a life-sized terracotta head, which instilled fear in them.

[ColonelZ]

The terracota army

[justawhoaman]

It is an archaeological find that has always fascinated me. Thanks for the post. First I saw pictures of some of the original colors. Amazing.

[Kimberley]

I have long been fascinated by the terracotta warriors, and have visited several times - including observing an unearthing in an adjoining pit, and can confirm there was colour on the statues and real weapons.
A special note is that every figure is different, with its own facial features.

[Jimmy]

Amazing pictures the colors fading fast reminded me of catching dolphin in the ocean. To be clear Mahi-mahi…. the colors are amazingly vibrant as soon as the fish is brought onto boat then they fade as the fish dies…

[Morrisville]

Thanks, Colonel!! Most interesting!!