The Terracotta Army

Lore & Background

Geographer Li Daoyuan, writing six centuries after the first emperor's death, recorded that Mount Li was chosen for its auspicious geology. Sima Qian wrote that the first emperor was buried with palaces, towers, officials, valuable artifacts, and simulated rivers using mercury, though the original text makes no mention of the terracotta army. High levels of mercury found in the soil of the tomb mound have given credence to Sima Qian's account.

Reader's Guide

The Terracotta Army is significant as the largest pottery figurine group ever found, representing a unique funerary art form from ancient China. The figures vary in height according to rank, with generals being the tallest, and originally were painted with ground precious stones and pigments. The tomb itself remains unopened due to concerns over preservation, as the painted surface on some figures began to flake and fade after excavation. The army's presence has provided insight into Qin dynasty military organization, artistry, and beliefs about the afterlife. Later historical accounts suggest the mausoleum complex may have been looted by Xiang Yu, though there are indications the tomb itself may not have been plundered. The site continues to be a major archaeological and cultural resource.

Did You Know?

• The figures vary in height according to their rank, the tallest being the generals.
• Pit 4 is empty, perhaps left unfinished by its builders.
• The lacquer covering the paint on the figures can curl in fifteen seconds once exposed to Xi'an's dry air and flake off in just four minutes.