Thursday, July 26, 2012

Terracotta Warriors Exhibit


Amid the hustle, the bustle and also the shiny bright lights of Times Square in NYC there is a wonderful informative exhibit of ancient Chinese history.  The Discovery Times Square exhibit Terracotta Warriors Defenders of China's First Emperor.  This exhibit is absolutely great!

From time to time I share a bit of history - sometimes ancient history.  This is definitely ancient history!  Back over 2,200 years ago the first Emperor of China, Qin Shihuangdi, prepared for his afterlife, after he became the ruler of the Qin Dynasty.  His tomb took over 40 years to build and more than 700,000 workers labored.  The terracotta warriors and horses were made to be included in his tomb.

General wore shoes with turned up toes.
In 1974 peasant farmers were digging for a well in China.  They dug deeper and did strike something solid - a part of a terracotta soldier.  Archaeologists were called.  Fast forward years and we all are able to view the beautiful terracotta works of art.  It did not require a trip to the museum in China.  For me it was first a car ride and then the Metro North to NYC to view these artifacts and also others from the Han Dynasty - that followed the Qin Dynasty.

The Terracotta Warriors Defenders of First Emperor closes on August 26.  If you live near or are planning a trip to NYC, this is a wonderful exhibit!

History is fascinating!
You will Enjoy!
             

6 comments:

Carol @ Always Thme to Cook said...

Looks like a fantastic exhibit. It's been so long since I headed to Manhattan for museum visits!

JG said...

Carol- It's amazing to see!!! An audio rental is available. The museum is tucked away in Times Square. Definitely worth the trip!
~Judy

Pam said...

This is so interesting!!!! I think, if I remember correctly, they know the tomb is there, but do not want to open it. Supposedly it is filled with incredible wealth, what looks like running water is mercury and constellations in the sky are pearls. Lucky you!!!!!!! I'd love to see this and I have to find out if it's coming to Chicago. I can't imagine the Chinese letting this out of their sight. Thanks for the great post, Judy!!!!

JG said...

Pam- The Emperor's tomb has not been opened, yet. He was the first Emperor of the Qin (pronounced "chin")
empire. His name, Qin Shihuangdi. It is how the country came to be known as China. So much more fascinating history! Hope you can view this exhibit!
~Judy

Cathy at Wives with Knives said...

I saw that exhibit and thought it was absolutely wonderful. How great that you had the opportunity to see it. Thanks for the bit of history about it, JG.

JG said...

Cathy- Thanks! I really feel so lucky that I had the opportunity to view this, too! It is an incredible exhibit!
~Judy