his brilliantly modelled pair of terracotta warriors belong to a class of objects known as mingqi, literally meaning ‘spirit goods’, made specifically for burial with the dead. During this period the nobility were buried with clay replicas of people and goods that would be required in the afterlife. These heavily armoured figures were intended to guard the deceased for eternity. Standing on plinths, each warrior holds an elaborate shield in his left hand, embellished with an animal mask and leaping beasts. Each figure would also have carried a lance or spear in their right hand. These were probably fashioned from a more perishable material, such as wood, explaining their loss over time. Considerable traces of the original polychromy survive, particularly on the main body of the armour. The facial features are also striking, especially the thick eyebrows and wide mouths.Although never intended to be viewed above ground, considerable energy has been spent on the intricacies of the armour. Thus, these pieces are not only visually stunning, they are also a manifestation of social and religious practice during this period. The more accurate the modelling the more effective the protection afforded to the deceased who must have been of considerable status. - (DL.2065)

Antiquities
Ancient Asian