How were Terracotta Warriors Made?
Terracotta Warriors were hand-made by Slave workers using exquisite craftsmanship. This article is a complete guide of how Terracotta Warriors were made.
What Materials to Make Terracotta Warriors?
The main material for making the Terracotta Warriors is local loess. This loess has strong viscosity and good plasticity, providing basic conditions for the shaping of the terracotta figures. Craftsmen were very particular when selecting materials. They would choose loess with few impurities and fine texture to ensure the quality of the figures.
Production Steps of Terracotta Warriors
- Kneading: Warriors are crafted from local clay found near the burial site. Artisans knead the clay until it reaches the desired pliability.
- Coiling: Once the clay is prepared, it’s proportionally distributed and shaped using molds.
- Casting: The shaped clay is placed in molds to create the warriors’ arms, legs, and feet. This ensures precise proportions and uniform structure.
- Body Formation: Coils of clay form the base of the torso, which is then placed on the legs. Artisans carve details like armor and clothing before attaching the arms.
- Head Sculpting: Warrior heads are made using molds, with individual features added after casting. Craftsmen add mouths, ears, eyebrows, facial hair, and headgear (varying based on rank).
- Firing: The body and head are fired separately in large kilns, possibly using the yellow earth kilns common in this region of China.
- Assembly: After firing, the parts are assembled to form a complete warrior. Artisans then equip them with weapons: crossbows, bows, spears, or swords.
- Lacquering: The entire warrior is coated with lacquer to protect both the statue and weapons.
- Painting: The final step involves adding vibrant colors to the warrior. Today, traces of paint are often only visible on the shoes, armor, and hair of many warriors.
While the above nine steps are completed, a terracotta warrior is basically done.
The production of the Terracotta Warriors embodies the wisdom and hard work of the craftsmen in the Qin Dynasty. Their production techniques reflect the superb sculpture level and technological level at that time. These Terracotta Warriors are not only precious historical relics but also symbols of the splendid culture of the Chinese nation. They are worthy of in – depth research and protection.