The first time I saw the ad online about the staging of China’s Terracotta Warriors at Cincinnati Art Museum in Ohio, I immediately planned for a weekend trip. The exhibit only features nine army figures, however, it also showcases more than a hundred other collections such as warrior arms and armor, ritual vessels, ornaments and more.
In China, nearly 8,000 life-sized Terracotta figures were unearthed in Xian in 1974. This is one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. The armies in the mausoleum were created to accompany Ying Zheng, China’s First Emperor (or Qin Shihuang) in the afterlife and to represent his court.
The First Emperor ordered the construction of his massive burial complex in 246 BC when he was enthroned at age 13. Construction took 38 years to finish. The site of the mausoleum is approximately 38 miles, which contains the First Emperor’s tomb mound, a palace, an armory, an area for entertainment, stables, a garden pond, and three large pits with 8,000 Terracotta Warriors.
Each Terracotta figure found had a special location based on their position in the Emperor’s army and household.
What makes the Terracotta Warriors special? Although they were built using mass produced molded parts, close inspection of facial expressions, hairstyles, and clothing show that no two warriors were the same. The warriors were built starting with a solid base and feet to allow for stability. The legs, waist, upper body and arms, and then hands followed. The two-part molded head was attached separately.
Below are the nine life-sized Terracotta figures that are on special exhibit “Terracotta Army: Legacy of the First Emperor of China” at Cincinnati Art Museum.
1. Terracotta Warrior Middle Ranking Officer
Indicated by his height, flattened cap, long robe, pointed boots, and extensive armor, this officer ranks somewhere between the general and infantryman. The depiction of rolled-up sleeves and a tightened grip suggest anticipation and strength.
2. Terracotta Warrior Armored General
Generals are the highest-ranking figures excavated from the pits. This one is depicted wearing a protective leather apron with overlaid plate armor, a double-layer robe, padded trousers, and elaborate cap imitating a pheasant’s tail. The general was responsible for commanding troops in battle, a duty indicated by his outstretched index finger.
3. Terracotta Warrior Armored Infantryman
Infantrymen are the best-represented rank in the terracotta army, with hundred excavated from all pits. This army stands attentively with a serious expression on his face and was equipped with only a crossbow and positioned behind defensive lines of unarmored infantry and chariots.
4. Terracotta Warrior Civil Official
Discovered in a small pit were court officials. Wearing a curving bonnet and a draping robe that conceals his clasped hands, this devoted official stands waiting patiently. A small hole carved beneath his arm was used for storing important documents.
5. Terracotta Warrior Cavalry Horse
In the pits, each cavalry horse is paired with an armored cavalryman. This one is meticulously detailed to include tacks, tassels, girth straps, buckles and a blanket. Terracotta horses were assembled from the legs up. The large hole in this horse’s abdomen provided ventilation while it was fired in a massive imperial kiln.
6. Terracotta Warrior Standing Archer
In accordance with Qin military strategy, groups of standing archers provided cover fire on the battlefield. This standing archer is dressed in a padded field robe with a braided topknot. With one foot turned outward he aims down as if drawing back a bow with hi right arm.
7. Terracotta Warrior Kneeling Archer
The archers have the most animated poses among the thousands of figures excavated. This terracotta archer kneels, to load bolts into his crossbow. He is prepared for battle, with his hair tied in a tight topknot.
8. Terracotta Stable Attendant
The terracotta stable attendant was found inside a small coffin alongside earthenware vessels and the skeletal remains of a horse at a village located between the terracotta army pits and the First Emperor’s tomb. The figure’s modest demeanor, simple attire, and neatly groomed hair denote his servant status.
9. Terracotta Warrior Armored Charioteer
Charioteers commanded troops and cavalry groups in battle, while simultaneously operating chariots of their own. This warrior is wearing a heavy, sleeveless armor that would protect his neck and back while driving. A cap and long tunic denote his status as both a charioteer and a low-ranking officer.
When to Visit
The exhibition ends on August 12, 2018.
Museum Hours
Tuesday–Sunday, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Thursdays, 11 a.m.–8 p.m
Closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day
How Much is the Entrance Fee
General museum admission is always FREE. For special exhibition, it is $16 (adults), $8 (children).
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