Firing:

Kilns built to fire the terra cotta figures were easily found around the site of the tomb. Firing within a kiln facilitated experimentation with different firing temperatures, raw materials, and types of decoration. The well formed nature of the earthenware would have been obtained by maintaining a temperature between 800 C and 900 C. Greater heat would have destroyed the even thickness while less will caused brittleness and breakage. The pure luster, high density and hardness of the figures are unique. Modern attempts have failed to create figures of similar quality.

Glazing and Coloring:

Gelatin or raw lacquer was applied thinly to the surface, then pink or similar color added to depict skin tones. Another layer of white paint applied to form a glaze. The black pupils in the yellowish brown irises of eyes give the statue a lifelike expression. Excavations indicate that various shades of red, pink, blue, even bright yellow were applied.

The same applies to the muscular horses, which stand with forelegs straight and hind legs slightly bent. The horses, with flaring nostrils, ears erect and eyes blazing seem ready to engage in a battle charge at a moment's notice.

Museum of Qin Terra-cotta Warriors and Horses Pictures

Related Links:

Emperor Qin Shi Huang
Mausoleum of Emperor Qin Shi Huang
China Pictures of Terra Cotta Army Museum
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