Emperor Qin Shi Huang's Terracotta Army Museum

The Terracotta Army of the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang consists of pottery figures unearthed from the burial pits surrounding the emperor's tomb. It is also known as the Terracotta Army of the Qin Mausoleum. These figures are a form of ancient funerary sculpture. In ancient times, human sacrifice was practiced. Slaves were considered the property of their masters during life, and were buried with them after death. Besides sacrificing people, slave owners also used large numbers of pottery figures as burial offerings. The Terracotta Army of the Qin Mausoleum consists of funerary figures of chariots, horses, and soldiers, fired from clay. It is hailed as the Eighth Wonder of the World not only for its immense archaeological value, but also for its extraordinary artistic achievements. These achievements are most evident in its sculpture, casting, and painted decoration.