The Terracotta Warriors were discovered by some farmers,located in Xian,Shaanxi Province,in March 1974,while digging a well.According to the on-the-spot measurement after excavation,Vault 1,an underground architectural complex,is 5 meters deep,230 meters long east to west,and 62 meters wide,north to south,covering an area of over 14,000 square meters.
The pottery army,compact in organization and magnificent in battle arrays,is presented on a grand scale.The pottery warriors,well-proportioned and exquisitely shaped,have each a distinctive individual expression:some biting their lips,some glaring or gazing,some meditating with their heads lowered,or with troubled looks,others appearing naive or animated.With the armor buckled on,the soldier has his crossbow under the arm,and arrow quiver slung over the shoulder.The general,armored and keeping a hand on the tip of sword handle,maintains an awesome bearing.Strong and dynamic,the horse rears its head,bristling.The grandeur and superb workmanship fully demonstrate the great talent and vision of the Chinese nation.
In 1980,another two bronze chariots with riders and horses of larger size were unearthed.The chariots each with four bronze horses harnessed to,and a driver,have a luxurious canopy,pierced windows and a saddle and a bridle of gold and silver ornaments.The chariots and horses are colorful and really true to life.
These artistic treasures of the Qin Dynasty are without doubt,one of the world's great wonders.