Rare Terracotta Statue Discovered at China’s First Emperor’s Mausoleum

Archaeologists in Xi’an, China have unearthed a rare terracotta statue believed to depict a high-ranking general. The discovery comes from Pit No. 2 at the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang, the burial site of China’s first emperor.

This is the first significant find in this pit since excavations resumed in 2015 and the first major discovery since 1994.

Unique features of the general statue

The newly discovered general stands out due to his intricate headdress, ornate armor decorated with patterns and ribbon knots, and his distinctive pose – hands clasped in front of his abdomen. Nearby, they also found remnants of chariots and horses, which matched military formations used during the Qin dynasty.

Project excavation leader Zhu Sihong said the statue’s placement suggests it represents the unit’s highest-ranking commander. Researchers also discovered two officer statues and five soldiers clad in armor. Only 10 senior officer statues have been found among the thousands of terracotta warriors excavated.

The Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang

Located in Xi’an’s Lintong District, the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang is an immense burial complex. It was constructed over 38 years by 700,000 laborers.

At its center stands a large, pyramid-shaped mound. Historical records, particularly from the ancient historian Sima Qian, describe the tomb beneath the mound as containing palaces, treasures, and even rivers of mercury.

The mausoleum, covering more than 20,000 square meters, was first uncovered in 1974. Local farmers stumbled upon pieces of the warriors while digging a well.

Since then, archaeologists have excavated over 2,000 life-sized figures, bronze chariots, stone armor, and other artifacts across three main pits. UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site in 1987.

Military formations in Pit No. 2

Pit No. 2, where the general statue was discovered, features a range of military formations, including cavalry, crossbowmen, and mixed units. These formations reflect the organization of Qin Dynasty military forces. The chariots and horse remains found alongside the general offer more insight into the battle strategies of the time.

The Qin Shihuang Mausoleum Museum announced that the restoration of the rare terracotta general’s statue has already begun in China. Experts meticulously clean the figure and carefully assemble the pieces. Then they will analyze the statue before preparing it for public display once fully restored.

Celebrating 50 years of discovery

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the discovery of the Terracotta Warriors. Since their initial unearthing, the site has provided invaluable knowledge about China’s ancient history and the military power of the Qin dynasty.

The terracotta army was created to guard Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife, reflecting his ambition to maintain control even in death.

The discovery of the general is a significant milestone in ongoing research at the site. Experts hope future excavations will yield more high-ranking figures and further unravel the mysteries of the Qin dynasty’s military and burial practices.

The continued exploration of Pit No. 2 and other mausoleum areas highlights the Terracotta Warriors’ lasting importance in understanding China’s rich heritage.