Qin Shihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum (Terracotta Warriors)

The Qin Shihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum is located in Lintong District, Xi'an City, Shaanxi Province. It is a museum with the Qin Shihuang's Mausoleum and its accompanying terracotta warrior pits as its core. The Terracotta Warriors, known as the “eighth wonder of the world”, are a great symbol of ancient Chinese civilization during the Qin Dynasty. Their scale, exquisite craftsmanship and complex technology are breathtaking. The following are some of the main features of the Terracotta Warriors at the Qin Shihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum:

The scale and layout of the terracotta army
The terracotta army pits consist of pits 1, 2 and 3, arranged in a “pin” shape. The three pits are independent but echo each other, showing the military formation of the Qin army. Pit 1 is the formation of infantry and chariots, with about 6,000 terracotta warriors and horses, and is the largest of the terracotta pits. Pit 2 has a more complex layout, with infantry, cavalry, crossbowmen and other formations, demonstrating the rich combat formations of the Qin army. Pit 3 is considered the command centre, with fewer terracotta figures unearthed, but with a clear image of the commander. These three pits demonstrate the military might of the powerful army of the First Emperor through a scientific layout.

Types and shapes of terracotta figures
Terracotta warriors are famous for their rich variety and different shapes. They mainly include general figures, warrior figures, cavalry figures, kneeling archer figures, charioteer figures, etc. The height, clothing, posture and expression of each figure correspond to their actual identity and function. The general figurines are tall, with a majestic bearing, and wear intricate and exquisite armor, showing their status as high-ranking officers. The common warrior figurines have various postures, including standing, holding a sword, holding a halberd, etc., with serious expressions, showing the bravery and loyalty of the soldiers. The kneeling archer figurine is a classic representative. It is kneeling on one knee, hands holding the bow, the posture lifelike, reflecting the concentration of the warrior. The various terracotta figurines have different expressions and are lifelike, reflecting the high level of ancient sculptural art.

Terracotta production process
Terracotta warriors are made using hand-made pottery techniques. They are large in size, with individual pieces measuring about 1.8 to 1.9 meters in height, and the production process is complex. Craftsmen use different molds to create the head, body, and limbs, which are then assembled. The details of each terracotta warrior are extremely delicate, and even the fine details such as fingernails and hair knots are clearly visible. The facial details of the terracotta warriors are particularly outstanding, and there are almost no identical faces, which reflects the meticulous attention to detail of the craftsmen. In addition, the terracotta warriors were originally brightly colored, and although most of the colors have now peeled off, traces of some red, blue, and green pigments can still be seen. The combination of these colors and shapes makes the terracotta warriors not only realistic, but also full of visual impact.

Archaeology and restoration of terracotta warriors
Archaeological excavations of the terracotta army began in 1974. With the excavation of a large number of terracotta figures, archaeologists began long-term restoration and conservation work. Many of the terracotta figures were damaged when unearthed, and the restoration process required archaeologists to carefully restore the figures based on the fragments to restore the original appearance of the terracotta army. In addition, scientists also studied the excavated painted terracotta figures and tried to protect the remaining colors. The painted layers are extremely thin and oxidize and fade easily, so archaeologists have conducted many experiments in color protection in an effort to extend their preservation time. The continuous development of restoration and protection techniques has not only enabled the terracotta warriors to be displayed for a long time, but also promoted research in the field of archaeological conservation.

The cultural connotations and symbolic meaning of the terracotta warriors
The terracotta warriors are not only works of art, but also a symbol of the power and majesty of the First Emperor of Qin. The existence of the Terracotta Army pit demonstrates the enormous military strength that the First Emperor had after unifying the six states and his pursuit of the supremacy of imperial power. As part of the First Emperor's tomb, the Terracotta Army pit is a symbol of the First Emperor's pursuit of eternity, through which he hoped to continue ruling after his death. The existence of the Terracotta Army also symbolizes the unique understanding of life and death among the people of the Qin Dynasty, and shows their serious attitude towards the world underground. In addition, the Terracotta Army demonstrates the military organization and combat effectiveness of the Qin Dynasty, and is of great reference value for later generations studying ancient military systems and tactical layouts.

Terracotta Warriors' international influence
The Terracotta Warriors have been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and have become one of the symbols of ancient Chinese civilization. Since opening, the Qin Shihuang's Mausoleum Site Park has attracted tourists and experts from all over the world, and the Terracotta Warriors have become an important window for showcasing Chinese history and culture. The artistic achievements and cultural value of the Terracotta Warriors have also attracted the attention of international scholars. They have been exhibited around the world many times, spreading the essence of Qin culture. The Terracotta Warriors have not only enhanced China's international image, but also promoted cultural exchange and understanding between China and the rest of the world.

In summary, the Terracotta Warriors at the Qin Shihuang's Mausoleum Museum are a treasure of ancient art and history, with their grand scale, rich variety, exquisite craftsmanship and profound cultural connotations. This spectacular underground army is not only the Qin Shihuang's fantasy of perpetuating his power after death, but also a great symbol of ancient Chinese civilization. It provides valuable physical data for future generations to understand the military system, social landscape, culture and art of the Qin Dynasty.